Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of titanium instruments?

Titanium instruments are known for several distinct characteristics. One prominent feature is that they are generally not blue in color. While titanium can be anodized to produce a variety of colors, including blue, the natural color of titanium is typically a silvery-gray. In the context of surgical instruments, blue coloring often refers to the finish applied to stainless steel instruments for specific purposes, such as reducing reflection.

The other characteristics mentioned are indeed true for titanium instruments. They are lighter than stainless steel, which makes them easier to handle during surgical procedures. Titanium also offers greater strength-to-weight ratio compared to stainless steel, meaning it can withstand significant stress while remaining lightweight. Additionally, titanium is non-magnetic, which makes it suitable for use in environments with magnetic fields, such as MRI rooms, where ferromagnetic materials could pose hazards or interference.

This mixture of properties makes titanium an appealing choice for surgical instruments, but their typical color is not blue, thus making it the correct answer to the question about what is NOT a characteristic of titanium instruments.