Metallic biomaterials

Abstract

The development of science and technology contributes to an increased number of available materials. Biomaterials are considered a special class of materials, which is intensively studied by scientists, doctors, surgeons and engineers all over the world. Biomaterials are used for the production of implants with the aim of compensating or replacing diseased damaged living tissues or organs. Metallic biomaterials make a significant group of biomaterials mostly used for orthopaedic and dental applications due to a superior combination of high mechanical strength and fracture toughness. Metal alloys have played a predominant role as structural biomaterials in reconstructive surgery, especially orthopaedics, with more recent uses in non-osseous tissues, such as blood vessels. These biomaterials can be classified in five groups depending on their basic metal. Metallic biomaterials include stainless steels, titanium-based alloys, cobalt-based alloys, Ni-Ti alloys, and magnesium alloys. This study provides an overview of the most important alloys within the above classes, applications, advantages and shortcomings. Special requirements such as biocompatibility, corrosion and wear resistance, and mechanical properties are also analyzed. In addition, the most significant challenges for metallic biomaterials are summarized, with the emphasis on the most promising approaches and strategies.