Overview of Surface Evaluation Techniques

Abstract

Surface characterisation is necessary if we want to understand biological processes influenced by surface properties and eventually their clinical importance. In addition, we need surface characterisation if researchers want to distinguish between the components forming the implant surface, i.e. topography, chemistry, physics and mechanics. The techniques should provide objective data to decrease the possibility for subjective interpretation and biases. This chapter is a brief overview of commonly used evaluation techniques of the four different surface properties with the emphasis on topographical evaluations.