Figure 2.

SEM micrographs revealing the comparison of sandblasted, mechanically polished and plasma electrolytically polished Co-Cr alloys. (a) Overview of sandblasted Wironit^® depicting a rough surface morphology. (b) Close-up view of sandblasted Wironit^® showing a rough and fissured surface. (c) High magnification of sandblasted Heraenium^® Sun reveals an irregular surface with ridges, edges and deeper porosities. (d) Overview of mechanically polished Heraenium^® Sun depicting a clear border between mechanically polished (*) and sandblasted area (S). (e,f) High magnification of mechanically polished Heraenium^® Sun reveals a smooth surface with numerous polishing marks. (g) Overview of plasma electrolytically polished Wironit^® showing a comprehensive smooth surface. (h) Close-up of plasma electrolytically polished Wironit^® showing a smooth surface with numerous inhomogeneities. (i) High magnification of plasma electrolytically polished Wironit^® reveals a smooth surface with interspersed insular structures.