Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation of Zr-1%Nb Alloy: Effect of Sodium Silicate and Boric Acid Addition to Calcium Acetate-Based Electrolyte.

This work aimed at the development of wear and corrosion resistant oxide coatings for medical implants made of zirconium alloy, by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO). The effect of sodium silicate and boric acid addition to calcium acetate electrolyte on the coating properties was studied. Different aspects of the PEO coating were investigated: microstructure, electrochemical and wear behavior, wettability and apatite-forming ability.