Atomic force microscopy and X-ray diffraction were used to examine the
surface topography of oxide layers formed on pure titanium. Oxide gro
wn in air at 1173 K exhibits a structure of rutile (TiO2) and a strong
texture of {110} planes aligned perpendicular to the growth direction
. The growth surface is covered with well defined pyramids, twisted wi
th respect to each other. Cross-sectional analysis indicates that the
sidewalls of these pyramids consist of both lateral macro and numerous
nano-size growth ledges. The mechanism of oxide growth on titanium is
discussed. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.