STRUCTURE OPTIMIZATION OF TINI ORTHOPEDIC IMPLANTS

The optimized structure of TiNi ''memory implants'' results from optim ized mechanical and heat treatment. The key characteristics (extent of recovery strain, generated forces, transformation temperatures) are d ependent on the state of a TiNi alloy structure and on the stiffness o f the system to be tired It follows from TEM analysis that the most im portant strustural parameters are the grain size of B2 phase and the d islocation density. Both these factors modify the conditions of B19' f ormation.