Mechanical properties of porous Ti-Mo and Ti-Nb alloys for biomedical application by gelcasting

Abstract

In this study, we have introduced gelcasting for prepared near-shape porous Ti-Mo and Ti-Nb alloys implants. The microstructure and the total porosity of the vacuum sintered porous Ti alloys were analyzed by using electronic microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Moreover, compression and bending tests were conducted to investigate their mechanical properties. The results shows that three-dimensional pore morphologies and total porosity range from 39% to 50% can be achieved. The microstructure of Ti-Mo and Ti-Nab alloys contained a mixture of α and β phase. The compressive strength was significantly increased with adding Mo and Nb element. The Young's modulus ranging from 5-18 GPa. In conclusion, from a mechanical strength viewpoint, we have found that the porous Ti-12.5Mo and Ti-25Nb alloys prepared by gelcasting present a promising efficient process for the direct fabrication of customized implants for personalized medicine. © 2012 Published by Elsevier Ltd.