Nitinol biocompatibility

Nitinol Biocompatibility

Nitinol biocompatibility (pronunciation: /ˈnaɪtɪnɒl/ /ˌbaɪoʊkəmˈpætɪbɪlɪti/) refers to the compatibility of Nitinol (Nickel Titanium), a Shape Memory Alloy, with biological systems. This property is crucial in the application of Nitinol in Biomedical Engineering and Medical Devices.

Etymology

The term "Nitinol" is derived from its composition and the place of its discovery: Nickel (Ni), Titanium (Ti), and the Naval Ordnance Laboratory (NOL) where it was discovered. The term "biocompatibility" originates from the prefix "bio-" meaning life and "compatibility" which refers to the ability to exist or work together without conflict.

Nitinol

Nitinol is a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) that exhibits two unique properties: Shape Memory Effect and Superelasticity. These properties make Nitinol an ideal material for various Medical Devices such as Stents, Orthodontic Wires, and Endodontic Files.

Biocompatibility

In the context of Biomedical Engineering, biocompatibility refers to the ability of a material to perform with an appropriate host response in a specific application. The biocompatibility of Nitinol is determined by various factors including its surface finish, Nickel Ion Release, and the mechanical stresses it undergoes during its application.