Johnson Matthey Medical Components, West Chester, Pa., has introduced NitiBrite Nitinol wire, which features an exclusive one-step oxide removal process that completely eliminates the toxic HF acid solutions that cause embrittlement. Unlike other methods used to create oxide-free Nitinol wire, the NitiBrite process does not involve acid etch or costly mechanical polishing.
Additionally, since no toxic byproducts are generated, the process supports corporate sustainability efforts. The resulting NitiBrite Nitinol Wire (available in diameters of 0.020 to 0.040 inches in continuous spooled lengths) has a smoother, shinier surface unattainable through other known methods.
“NitiBrite represents a revolutionary new process for Nitinol wire,” says Joseph Kain, Nitinol Technical Specialist for Johnson Matthey. “Most of our competitors employ an acid strip process that uses a toxic Hf solution. Not only does this acid-etch process cause surface variability and/or premature wire fatigue, but it also generates toxic byproducts that must be disposed of. NitiBrite addresses all of these problems while providing a much more esthetically pleasing product.”
