SEDL / STP / STP953-EB / STP25223S

Morphological Characterization of Porous Coatings

Smith, TS
Director, Materials Engineering, DePuy, Inc., Warsaw, IN

Pages: 11    Published: Jan 1987

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Abstract

The morphological characteristics of porous coatings used on orthopedic joint replacement devices may have significant effects on their long-term performance. A method is presented for accurately quantifying coating morphologies. Ten coatings, six commercially available, were investigated. The characteristics measured were the average volume porosity, volume porosity gradient, average pore size, average pore size gradient, and pore size distribution. Computerized image analysis equipment is used to collect data from metallographically prepared sections through the coatings. The data, from which the morphological parameters are determined, are then corrected for sectioning effects.