Abstract
Porous titanium samples were sintered at four different temperatures (500, 550, 600, and 650 °C), by following the spark plasma sintering (SPS)/space holder (SH) route. The aim was to study the effect of sintering temperature on the structural integrity and space holder (NaCl) removal, as well as airflow resistance. The porous titanium was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy in conjunction with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). SEM images of the porous samples showed an appropriate range of pore sizes above 100 μm and interconnectivity. Fracture surfaces reveal the formation and growth of sintering necks between adjacent particles which becomes clearer with increasing temperature. The EDS and XRD analysis showed that there are no contaminations or inclusions of NaCl in the sintered porous samples. The most efficient leaching parameters, which are adequate to completely remove the space holder, were by immersion in hot water, for at least 5 h (five cycles). An increase in sintering temperature significantly reduces the material porosity level, and consequently increases the airflow resistance through the material.
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