Oxinium is a specialized oxidized zirconium material, uniquely engineered for use in medical devices. It is not a singular material but rather a composite structure that undergoes a transformation to achieve its desired properties.
Understanding Oxinium's Composition
The material known as Oxinium consists of two distinct, yet integrated, parts, which are formed through a unique manufacturing process. This design allows it to leverage the best properties of both metallic and ceramic materials.
- Zirconium Alloy Metal Substrate: The core of Oxinium is made from a zirconium alloy. This provides the foundational strength and structural integrity typical of a metal.
- Ceramic Zirconium Oxide Outer Surface: Through a proprietary process, the metallic zirconium alloy substrate undergoes a transformation on its outer surface. This results in the formation of a ceramic zirconium oxide layer. This ceramic surface is highly durable and hard, offering distinct advantages over the metallic substrate alone.
The relationship between these two components can be summarized as follows:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Substrate | The underlying metallic core, composed of a zirconium alloy. |
| Outer Surface | A transformed ceramic layer of zirconium oxide that covers the metal substrate. |
Applications in Medical Devices
Oxinium is specifically utilized in the manufacturing of replacement joints. Its unique composition, featuring a durable ceramic outer layer, is designed to enhance the performance and longevity of these critical medical implants. It is a material developed and manufactured by the reconstructive orthopedic surgery division of the medical devices company, Smith & Nephew.
