Development and characterization of a new predominantly β Ti–15Mo–5In alloy for biomedical applications

Abstract

A new Ti–Mo–In alloy was designed for biomedical implant applications and produced by powder metallurgy. Mechanical properties, ion release, and electrochemical assessments were conducted to uncover its biomaterial feasibility. The Ti–15Mo–5In alloy consisted of a nearly equiaxed and micrometric β matrix with acicular α and fine dispersed α′′ phases. Mo and In chosen contents encouraged flexural strength (0.59 GPa) and hardness (3.9 GPa) beyond the values for human bone in the literature. As expected from the predominantly β microstructure, a medium value of elastic modulus (80 GPa) was obtained. The ion Ti (0.019 μgL−1 cm−2 h−1), Mo (0.622 μgL−1 cm−2 h−1), and In (0.001 μgL−1 cm−2 h−1) released concentrations were below harmful concentrations to human health. Corrosion rates during immersion and electrochemical tests (0.524 and 0.1 μm year−1, respectively) were lower than those reported for various implant materials. The Ti–15Mo–5In alloy is a feasible option for orthopedic and dental implants. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.].