Nanotopographical design and corrosion resistance improvement of Ti40Zr10Cu36Pd14 glassy alloy using alkaline chemical treatment

Ti-based bulk metallic glasses (Ti-BMGs) are promising candidates for mini-invasive dental implant devices due to their unique properties. Among them, Ti40Zr10Cu36Pd14 has received particular attention in the literature for its potential biocompatibility. However, its high copper content limits corrosion resistance by promoting localised corrosion (pitting or crevice). This study presents a rapid and straightforward surface modification technique known as chemical pseudo-dealloying to reduce copper content in the top surface layer, enriching palladium and enhancing corrosion resistance limiting pitting occurrence. Additionally, the selective etching of Cu creates nanoscale surface features that could be interesting for cell adhesion and differentiation. The Pd-rich nanoporous layer was thoroughly characterized by its topography, chemical composition, electrochemical behaviour, and biocompatibility. These findings pave the way for tailoring the topography and surface properties of metallic amorphous alloys for biomedical applications.