Strong and relatively ductile substances that provide electro-positive ions to a corrosive environment and can be polished to a high luster. Characterized by metallic atomic bonding. Most often used for surgical implants because of a combination of favorable properties and the long- term experience for the construction of surgical implants. Primarily titanium, cobalt or iron based systems.

Metal prepared by adding other metals or non-metals to a basic metal to secure desirable properties.

A term that generally describes a combination of metal with at least one other element. This resulting alloy is stronger than its constituent metal. Most engineering applications for metals are alloys.

Base metal with other metal or non-metal constituents melted together into a new molecular structure.

a compound of two or more metals, e.g., bronze (tin and copper).

A designation used to identify either the result of a blending of metals or those metals added to the base metal to create the blend.

(alcoy) A substance composed of a mixture of two or more metals. Alloys are used in a variety of conditions in modern medicine. Implants these days are not made of one substance but a varied mixture of different substances known as alloys. Such alloys are used in joint replacement surgeries. Super elastic titanium alloys and cobalt-based alloys are some of the latest alloys used.