Contemporary methods for characterizing complex biomaterial surfaces
There are many methods that we can bring to bear for the characterization of polymeric surfaces. Standard methods include contact angle techniques, attenuated total reflectance infrared (IR) and electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA). However, new and modified methods can be used that can greatly enhance the information content available from these traditional methods. In this paper, the application of newer methods to two complex systems, polyetherurethanes and plasma deposited thin films, will be discussed. In particular, external reflection IR, derivatization ESCA, static secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), derivatization SIMS, isotope SIMS, time-of-flight (TOF) SIMS, atomic force microscopy, synchrotron x-ray fluorescence and synchrotron electron yield will be described. © 1992.