The effects of niobium on the bioactivity of Ni-Ti-Al-Nb shape memory alloys

Abstract

This work aims to analyze the effects of niobium on the bioactivity of a titanium, nickel, aluminum, and niobium alloy obtained by the Plasma Skull Push Pull process (PSPP). Titanium alloys, such as NiTinol (NiTi), are metallic biomaterials that have wide application in health and surgical prostheses. In this work the microstructural and bioactivity characteristics of the alloys are evaluated. The addition of aluminum improves alloy ductility and reduces its cost. The addition of niobium favors the hydroxyapatite nucleation. Therefore, the addition of the combination of the two elements contributes to lower cost and better alloy bioactivity.