Electropolishing of Ti-6Al-4V ELI Alloy: Surface Roughness and Wettability Characteristics

This study evaluates electropolishing as a surface preparation method for the Ti-6Al-4V ELI alloy for implant applications, aiming to reduce surface roughness and improve wettability behavior. Alloy samples were subjected to electropolishing in a solution of acetic acid, perchloric acid, and glycerol, under different voltages (13–18 V) and times (5, 10, and 15 min). The surfaces were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, profilometry, and contact angle measurements. Higher voltages and longer anodizing times favored roughness reduction. The average Ra, calculated from samples analyzed in triplicate, was 70.207 nm, with a standard deviation of 19.260 nm, obtained under the condition of 18 V for 15 minutes. The largest contact angles, 112.62° and 110.74°, were observed at 14 V for 10 and 15 minutes, respectively, suggesting that factors beyond surface topography influence wettability. It was concluded that electropolishing is an effective method for preparing the surface of Ti-6Al-4V ELI, with potential for implant applications, and that the parameters should be adjusted according to the desired performance (surface finish, hydrophobicity, or hydrophilicity).