When we think about medical implants, most people focus on the material. But the surface finish, and especially the degree of roughness, plays just as big a role in how well an implant performs once inside the body.
Why surface roughness is important
• Bone and tissue bonding: The right level of micro-roughness helps cells attach securely. Too smooth and integration is poor; too rough and you risk bacterial growth or localised stress.
• Biocompatibility: Surface texture influences how proteins and cells interact, which affects healing and long-term acceptance.
• Durability: A consistent finish prevents the pits and scratches that can trigger corrosion or premature wear.
• Sterility: Uniform surfaces are easier to clean and sterilise, which is critical for patient safety.
The role of wet blasting
Wet blasting, which uses a slurry of water and fine abrasive, is a highly effective way to control roughness because it offers:
• Precision: Surface texture can be adjusted by changing slurry pressure, media type, and particle size.
• Consistency: Even complex geometries, such as threads or porous coatings, can be finished evenly.
• Gentleness: The water cushions the abrasive, reducing the risk of micro-cracks compared with dry blasting.
• Cleanliness: Debris and residues are flushed away, leaving a surface ready for sterilisation.
• Material integrity: With no heat build-up, the implant’s structure and properties remain intact.
Surface roughness is central to implant performance, from bone integration to long-term durability. Wet blasting gives manufacturers a reliable way to achieve the required finish with consistency and control.
