Preparation of Zr-based metallic glass wires for biomaterials by arc-melting type melt-extraction method

Abstract

New Zr-based metallic glass wires with and without bio-toxic elements of Ni and Al for the application to biomaterials were prepared by arc-melting type melt-extraction method and their characteristics were tested. The continuous metallic glass wires with a good white luster and smooth surface were obtained in various alloys such as conventional Zr-Al-Ni-Cu, Ni-free Zr-Al-Co-Cu, and Ni and Al free Zr-Ti-Co alloys. The Zr-based metallic glass wires exhibit high tensile strength reaching 1 GPa. Furthermore, the metallic glass wires showed good bending ductility and could be bent through 180 degrees without fracture. The Zr-based metallic glass wires achieve simultaneously high tensile strength, good bending ductility and high thermal stability. © 2008 The Japan Institute of Metals.