Effect of TiC Nanoparticles on a Zn-Al-Cu System for Biodegradable Cardiovascular Stent Applications

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Zinc (Zn) alloys are promising for biodegradable implants due to their biocompatibility and corrosion rates.
• Improving mechanical properties of Zn alloys without compromising biocompatibility is crucial.
• Thermal stability of biodegradable Zn alloys requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of titanium carbide (TiC) nanoparticles on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of Zn-Al-Cu alloys.
• To evaluate the potential of TiC-reinforced Zn-Al-Cu nanocomposites for biodegradable implant applications.

Main Methods:

• TiC nanoparticles were incorporated into a Zn-Al-Cu alloy system.
• Hot rolling was employed for uniform nanoparticle distribution and phase control.
• Tensile testing, fatigue testing, and microstructural analysis were conducted.
• Body-temperature aging was used to assess long-term stability.

Main Results:

• TiC nanoparticles uniformly distributed in the Zn matrix, leading to globular Zn-Cu phases.
• Tensile strength increased by 31% (259.7 to 340.3 MPa) with maintained ductility (49.2% elongation).
• Fatigue limit improved by 47.6% (44.7 to 66 MPa).
• TiC nanoparticles prevented undesirable phase evolution during body-temperature aging, enhancing long-term stability.

Conclusions:

• The addition of TiC nanoparticles significantly enhances the mechanical properties and fatigue performance of Zn-Al-Cu alloys.
• TiC nanoparticles provide effective phase control, improving thermal and long-term stability.
• The developed Zn-Al-Cu-TiC nanocomposite is a highly promising material for biodegradable stents and other medical implants.