Copper corrosion-simulated uterine solutions.

We studied the copper corrosion and product layers originating in a simulated uterine solution at pH values 6.3 and 8.0 for 15, 65, 180, and 360 days at 37 degrees C. Absorbance measurements were performed. Corrosion product layers on the copper surface were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive x-ray, and x-ray photo-electron spectroscopy techniques. Copper release for pH 6.3 and 8.0 was 3.4-4.5 microg/day for 15 days and 0.1-0.3 microg/day for 360 days. Of the order of 30%-40% of dissolved cupric ions were trapped in the product layers. The main compounds identified were cuprite (Cu(2)O), calcite (CaCO(3)), and phosphates.