Abrasive articles

Abstract

The subject invention provides abrasive articles for finely polishing surfaces, particularly ceramic containing surfaces. An abrasive article formed in accordance with the subject invention includes a metallic support scaffold having an open, three-dimensional plexus of metallic elements; and, diamond powder interspersed in the plexus. Advantageously, with the subject invention, average surface roughnesses (Ra) of less than about 20 nanometers can be achieved, and more preferably, average surface roughnesses (Ra) of less than about 10 nanometers can be achieved. Also, average surface roughnesses (Ra) of about 7 to 12 nanometers have been repeatedly achieved. Although the subject invention may have applicability in various areas, it is particularly well-suited for use with ceramic containing prosthetic implants, which benefit greatly from very fine surfaces.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.