Abstract: A process for smoothing the surface of a manufactured metallic workpiece, the workpiece having a region having an initial roughness (Ra) of greater than 2.0 ?m, the process involving (1) placing the metallic workpiece as the anode in an electrochemical cell, (2) arranging for the temperature of the electrolyte in the vicinity of the anode to be at least 50° C., (3) applying a voltage from 100V to 1000V across the electrochemical cell, thereby to generate a plasma membrane on the surface of the metallic workpiece which acts to remove material from the surface of the metallic workpiece, (4) maintaining the plasma membrane for a period effective to cause the roughness of the workpiece to be reduced.

Abstract: A process for treating a non-ferrous metal component, comprising placing the component into a process chamber at an elevated temperature, biasing the component to have a potential capable of attracting ions, introducing oxygen into the chamber at a pressure such that a glow discharge comprising oxygen ions is generated, the process chamber additionally comprising a glow discharge ionization enhancing means, and activating the glow discharge ionization enhancing means thereby increasing charged species density of the glow discharge, the oxygen ions flowing towards the component and colliding the surface thereof at least some of which diffuse into the component.

Abstract: A metallic biomedical article, preferably an orthopaedic implant, instrument or tool, for use in contact with internal human body tissue, having a first silver containing metal nitride coating thereon, and process for making the same, is provided.

Abstract: An aerospace bearing component of a substantially non-ferrous metal, the component comprising an oxygen diffusion zone near its surface to provide a bearing surface.

Abstract: A process for treating a non-ferrous metal component, comprising placing the component into a process chamber at an elevated temperature, biasing the component to have a potential capable of attracting ions, introducing oxygen into the chamber at a pressure such that a glow discharge comprising oxygen ions is generated, the process chamber additionally comprising a glow discharge ionization enhancing means, and activating the glow discharge ionization enhancing means thereby increasing charged species density of the glow discharge, the oxygen ions flowing towards the component and colliding the surface thereof at least some of which diffuse into the component.

Abstract: A metallic biomedical article, preferably an orthopaedic implant, instrument or tool, for use in contact with internal human body tissue, having a first silver containing metal nitride coating thereon, and process for making the same, is provided.