Ti64/20Ag Porous Composites Fabricated by Powder Metallurgy for Biomedical Applications.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Materials Engineering
• Orthopedic Implants

Background:

• Titanium alloys (Ti64) are widely used in biomedical applications.
• There is a need for advanced materials with improved properties for bone implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate and characterize a novel Ti64/20Ag highly porous composite.
• To investigate the microstructure, mechanical properties, and permeability of the composite for bone implant applications.

Main Methods:

• Powder metallurgy using the space holder technique.
• Liquid phase sintering at lower temperatures.
• Microstructural analysis via scanning electron microscopy and computed microtomography.
• Mechanical testing through compression tests and permeability estimation via numerical simulations.

Main Results:

• Successful fabrication of Ti64/20Ag porous composite with interconnected pores.
• Densification achieved through liquid silver infiltration and pore deformation.
• Increased pore volume fraction enhanced permeability (3.93 × 10^-11 m²).
• Mechanical properties decreased with increased porosity (E = 7.4 GPa, σ_y = 123 MPa).

Conclusions:

• The Ti64/20Ag composite shows promising characteristics for bone implant applications.
• The material offers enhanced adaptability and antibacterial properties due to silver content.
• The study provides a greater understanding of the microstructure-property relationship in these porous composites.