In vitro cytotoxicity and corrosion studies of some copper base shape memory alloys

In recent times, Cu-based shape memory alloys are being used more extensively in various engineering applications due to their ease of production and processing as well as lower cost. However, their suitability for medical applications has been challenged by the toxic effects resulting from the release of Cu ions into the body. The objective of this study is to explore the feasibility of using Cu-based shape memory alloys, specifically Cu-Al-Mn and Cu-Al-Ni, for biomedical applications. Methodologically, toxicity levels of the alloys were assessed using cell culture studies with SaOS-2 osteoblast and L6 myoblast cells, in both 24-hour and 48- to 72-hour durations. Additionally, surface energy evaluation and corrosion studies were executed in a simulated uterine fluid, accompanied by an E-SEM analysis of cell adhesion capabilities. The results indicated that Cu-Al-Mn alloys demonstrate significantly better cell compatibility when compared to Cu-Al-Ni alloys, shedding light on the related toxic effects through the analysis of polarization curves, SEM/EDAX results, and spectroscopy (ICP-OES) following corrosion tests. This work enhances the understanding of Cu-based alloys in a biomedical context, opening pathways for future research.