The microstructural and mechanical characterization of the β-type Ti-11.1Mo-10.8Nb alloy for biomedical applications

Abstract

Ti-Mo alloys are promising biocompatible materials with lower elastic modulus than the extensively used Ti-6Al-4V alloy. However, research work done on these alloys indicate that their elastic modulus is still higher than that of the bone, even after the execution of numerous heat treatment procedures. Therefore, this study was aimed at adding Nb (non-toxic β stabilizer) to Ti-Mo system followed by the characterization of its microstructural and mechanical properties in the as-cast condition. This study will provide systematic preliminary information towards the design and development of novel biomedical components. The microstructure and phase analysis were carried out using optical microscope, SEM, and XRD. Mechanical tests were conducted using the uniaxial tensile test machine and Vickers microhardness tester. The as-cast Ti-11.1Mo-10.8Nb alloy consisted primarily of β phase and a possible small volume fraction of ω phase. The Vickers micro-hardness, elastic modulus, bending strength were measured as 311.62 HV0.5, 56.9 GPa 1671.4 MPa, respectively. The Ti-11.1Mo-10.8Nb alloy also exhibited ductile fracture behaviour during bend testing. The Ti-11.1Mo-10.8Nb design is a promising alloy for biomedical applications.