Corrosion resistance characteristics of a Ti-6Al-4V ELI alloy fabricated by electron beam melting after the applied post-process treatment methods

Abstract

Post-process modifications in the form of Hot Isostatic Pressing or surface treatment methods such as sandblasting or machining have been widely used in the case of improving the quality of elements manufactured with the use of EBM (Electron Beam Melting). The corrosion resistance of titanium alloys for medical applications is a key and critical aspect for the use of personalized components as implants, especially when investigating the issue of additive manufacturing. This paper presents the results of research on the influence of HIP processing on the functional properties of the material produced with the use of EBM, considering the aspect of reconstructive medicine. Both the influence of surface modification and the influence of post-process treatment on microstructural, mechanical, and corrosion properties were investigated. A wide range of research has been carried out using scanning and transmission electron microscopy methods, in combination with three-point static bending tests and performing corrosion tests using potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical spectroscopic impedance (EIS) in Hank‘s solution. The results showed that HIP treatment has a positive effect on the corrosive properties of the material in terms of increased corrosion resistance compared to materials not subjected to this type of post-process treatment. This fact is also related to the change of the alloy microstructure and the change of mechanical properties towards increased plasticity. In the case of the production of personalized implants with the use of EBM, it is worth considering the benefits of the HIP.