Fabrication of functionally graded implants by Spark Plasma Sintering and their properties

Abstract

The titanium (Ti)/hydroxyapatite (HAP) functionally graded materials (FGM) for implant were fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) method. The specimens were sintered at 950 °C under 40 MPa. After sintering, the square rods of 1×1×10 mm were cut for implant. The various FGM specimens were observed by SEM and evaluated by X-ray scanning analytical microscope. The FGMs with the gradient composition ranging from pure Ti to 100% HAP were implanted into the bone marrow of femora of rats for 2 and 4 weeks. The bone formation around the FGM specimens was histologically observed by optical microscopy. The present study showed that the sintering temperature could be lowered considerably by use of SPS from 1300 °C compared to less than 1050 °C by conventional electric furnace heating. The Ti/HAP FGM implant showed the biocompatibility and affinity for osteogenesis.