METHOD OF APPLYING A POROUS METAL COATING ON A SUBSTRATE

摘要

A unique sintering method of developing a controlled porosity, controlled thickness, metal layer on a metal substrate is disclosed. The region to be coated is cleaned, a suitable adhesive applied and appropriate metal powder poured on. Additional layers of adhesive and powder can be applied to give desired thickness. Pore size is determined by the size and shape of the powder particles and by the degree of sintering selected. Controlled sintering of the particles is carried out at a temperature near the melting point of the metal in a hydrogen atmosphere to permanently attach the particles to the substrate. The sintering is only sufficient to bond the particles while avoiding over-sintering which would close the porosity. No foreign material is left, the adhesive being burned off during sintering. The porous surface thus produced provides secure anchorage for the ingrowth of body tissue in a prosthetic device such as a heart valve or bone implant.