Effect of ELID Grinding on corrosion response of metallic biomaterials (Ti-6Al-4V alloy)

ELID (Electrolytic In-process Dressing) grinding method was used as a surface fabrication process for metallic biomaterials (Ti-6Al-4V alloy), and ground surfaces were analyzed by a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) equipped with an Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX). To measure the thickness of surface oxide layer, detailed observation was also performed by a Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). Electrochemical corrosion tests were carried out using a three electrode electrochemical cell connected to a computer driven potentiostat. The finished surface ground by the ELID grinding method showed higher corrosion resistance compared to the surface finished by polishing. This is because the ELID grinding method created a thick oxide layer. Consequently, the ELID grinding method appears to offer significant future promise for use in biomaterials and other engineering components subjected to corrosion.