Mechanical properties of anatase and semi-metallic TiO2 nanotubes Original Research Article

We report for the first time on mechanical properties of anodically formed, self-organized TiO2 nanotube layers on titanium. We compare their behavior in their virgin state and after conversion to their semi-metallic form by an acetylene treatment. We show that the acetylene treatment leads to significant enhanced hardness, tensile strength and friction behavior.