Oxidation of Biocompatible Graphite–Ti Composite after Laser Ablation in Different Atmospheres

The field of biocompatible material surfaces is a widely researched topic. Surface energy, surface topography and surface chemistry are important properties of biocompatible surfaces. These properties contribute to better osseointegration and adhesion of cells to implant surfaces. This article investigates the chemical and phase composition of the surface of a new titanium composite produced by powder metallurgy. Surface oxidation of the graphite– titanium metal matrix composite (TiMMC) after laser beam micromachining (LBMM) is discussed in this paper. Laser micromachining was performed in an argon shielding atmosphere and air. The aim was to determine the influence of the shielding atmosphere and the input parameters of LBMM on the presence of oxygen on the surface. Laser-treated surfaces were examined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The phase composition was analysed with X-ray diffraction (XRD). Experiments confirmed that an argon shielding atmosphere reduces surface oxidation. The oxidation was also affected by the energy of the laser beam acting on the material. The maximum amount of oxygen detected on the surface after LBMM in air and argon was 38.6 wt. % and 24.2 wt. %, respectively. The presence of TiO, TiO₂ and Ti₂O₃ oxides were detected on the surface after laser ablation in air. In contrast, Ti₂O₃ and TiO oxides were detected after laser ablation in the argon shielding atmosphere.