Aspects of Selective Laser Melting technology considered in the preparation of trabecular structures for bone tissue substitution

Abstract

In this paper, the possibilities of selective laser melting (SLM), one of metal additive manufacturing technologies, in the preparation of trabecular structures are discussed. Despite great advantages in geometrical freedom, there are specific process-inherent aspects that must be considered before the production of such structures. To verify SLM capabilities, we tested different orientations (horizontal and vertical) and thicknesses (0.2-4.0 mm) of single struts. Significant irregularities in strut thickness and deviations from the designed cross-sectional area were observed. Horizontal struts showed greater geometrical deviations. Based on our observations, a trabecular structure was prepared with all struts inclined 45° from the building platform. Due to the 72% porosity, mechanical properties approached those of the bone, which is beneficial for the application of such structure in orthopaedics for bone tissue substitution.