Biocompatible porous Ti-Ni material
AssigneeNitinol Devices and Components, Inc.
InventorsAlexandr Chernyshov, Sylvain Allard
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
This invention relates to a porous nickelide of titanium (TiNi) material also comprising oxygen, that is biomechanically and biochemically compatible and is intended primarily for use in the biomedical fields for implantation and interfacing with living tissues. The material has a porous structure defined by morphological, mechanical and surface properties to conform well to adjacent bone to which the TiNi material is designed to bind. The material is further distinguished by a complete lack of nickel enriched secondary phases. These phases may leach nickel into the body which could result in complications associated with nickel toxicity. The mechanical properties and surface characteristics achieved confirm the biofunctionality of the invention.
Claims10
A porous biomechanically and biochemically compatible nickelide of titanium, TiNi material comprising:
- a matrix of TiNi comprising interconnected struts, each strut having an outer surface and an internal zone, the matrix having an atomic ratio of Ni:Ti varying from 0.96:1 to 1.13:1 and including a maximum concentration of 10 atomic % of oxygen with the balance being Ni and Ti wherein the Ni concentration is limited to a maximum 53 atomic %;
- composite precipitates interspersed within the matrix;
- and
- a multiplicity of interconnected pores defined by the matrix, wherein the pores have a pore size distribution given as follows;
- Pore Size (μm)
- Percentage
- <50
- μm
- <5%
- 50 to 500
- μm
- >75%
- >500
- μm
- balance
- wherein the material has an open porosity varying from 35 to 80% and the matrix having mechanical properties suitable for surgical implantation, and
- wherein the matrix is devoid of Ni-enriched secondary phases.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.