[Shape memory alloys for orthodontic use studied with electron beams].

Abstract

Shape memory alloys, which have the ability to be deformed into a temporary shape and then returned to its original shape giving useful elastic forces, are used in orthodontics field as shaped archs and springs. Their characteristics offer high potentiality to produce new orthodontics devices and to use in implantology. Using different analysis techniques with focussed electron beams, Authors have investigated on the superficial topography, alloy structural composition and on the absorbed elements of superficial layers of Nitinol orthodontics archs. SEM analysis have shown a compact and finished surface. PIXE analysis has quantized the atomic alloy composition in 55% and 45% on nickel and titanium, respectively. Auger spectroscopy and ion sputtering technique have shown that in surface of new archs oxygen and carbon are present up to about 300 A depth.