Evaluation of Double Acid Attack (Dae) on Deformed and Aged Ti-xNb-ySn Alloys for Application in Implants

Double acid etching (DAE) is a consolidated method of surface modification for implants, however there are few studies on its application in newer alloys. The topography and surface composition influence the long-term success of dental implants, favoring retention and osseointegration. Beta titanium alloys emerge as an alternative with a low modulus of elasticity, high resistance to corrosion and better mechanical properties, in addition to being composed of biocompatible elements. In the present research, the influence of the acid etching process on cold-deformed and aged Ti-xNb-ySn alloys (x= 35 and 42 and y= 0 and 2) was studied. The samples were subjected to a two-step treatment with different combinations of acids. The surface roughness parameters were quantified using a rugosimeter, the topography was studied by scanning electron microscopy, and the wettability was determined by the sessile drop method. The results revealed that the two-step acid treatment altered the topography of the alloy, increasing the surface area and consequently the osseointegration potential.