Synthesis, characterization and mechanical properties of Ti-Nb-Ta-Zr foams for biomedical applications

Abstract

Abstract Development of titanium foams with low elastic modulus has achieved scientific and technological importance to avoid the stress shielding problems occurs due to the stiffness mismatch with respect to human bone. This work studied the synthesis and characterization of foams of Ti-3.2Nb-12.5Ta-12.7Zr, (wt. %) produced by mechanical alloying (MA) using a planetary mill for 12 h. Foams were obtained using NaCl (40, 50 and 60% v/v) as space-holder. Powders and space-holder were mixed together and compacted at the pressure of 420 MPa. Powders and foams were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and optical microscopy. The foams showed a heterogeneous pore distribution. Elastic modulus values between 10 to 25 GPa were obtained. These values are closer to human bone stiffness having the potential for bone replacement.