Testing Services

In the field of materials science, we offer a wide range of testing services in accredited and certified areas for medical implants.

Material characterization

  • Topography: characterization of structures and defects: SEM, confocal white light microscopy, AFM
  • Coating analysis: Thickness, cross-section, layer sequence: FIB, SEM, TEM, ellipsometry
  • Compound distribution studies on surfaces: Raman
  • Chemical characterization (ISO 10993-18): Influence of production, storage and degradation, etc. XPS, FTIR, Raman, SNMS
  • Surface wettability: contact angle measurement
  • Thermal sample characteristics: DMA, DSC

Mechanical testing

  • Static material and component testing (tension, compression, bending, shear strain, peeling)

Corrosion tests

  • Corrosion resistance (ISO 10993-15, ASTM F 2129)
  • Degradation products from metals and alloys (DIN EN ISO 10993-15)
  • Surface analysis (light- and scanning electron microscopy)

Degradation analysis

  • Detection of degradation products: qualitative and quantitative (ISO 10993-13, -15, ISO 13781; e.g. polarography)
  • Degradation kinetics (samples and fragments)

Cleanliness testing

  • Comparison with reference surfaces
  • Filmic and particulate contaminations

Biological tests

  • In vitro cytotoxicity (ISO 10993-5, after extraction or in direct contact)
  • Cell-material interactions (adhesion, proliferation, morphology, functional markers)
  • In vitro tests for inflammation and immune response
  • Hemocompatibility (ISO 10993-4)
  • Antibacterial activity (DIN EN ISO 22196 and 20743)
  • Pyrogenicity (Ph. Eur.)