Processing of porous Co-base nano-composite using carbonate hydrogen ammonium spacer particles

Abstract

Porous Co-base nano-composites were successfully prepared by the combination of different techniques. Scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction, compression and cell culture tests were used to characterise the fabricated samples and milled metal powder. The results of X-ray diffraction analysis show that induced strain during milling and compression test, and high temperature during sintering process lead to HCP–FCC phase transformation. Lamellar carbides, weaker interparticle bonding and phase transformation can lead to the brittle behaviour of the samples during compression test and also fluctuations observed in peak region in compressive stress–strain curves. The elastic modulus and compressive strength were measured to be from 7.3 to 63 MPa and 0.58 to 2.3 GPa for samples with porosities ranging from 58.9 to 38.1%, respectively. Cell cultures show good adhesion of cells on the surface and with each other and also reveal that cells grow on the surface and inside the pores.