A Combined Scientometric and Critical Approach in Reviewing TiZr Implant Alloys and Coating Performances

Abstract

This review article was developed based on the scientometric analysis of the evaluated studies conducted on titanium−zirconium (TixZr) alloys from 2000 to the present. The scientometric data obtained helped us to identify the most researched topics and these topics were further analyzed and discussed. An increasing number of researchers are considering TixZr alloys as opposed to the traditional ones because these alloys present improved mechanical properties and in some cases improved corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. Due to the natural layer of oxides formed on these alloys, multiple surface modification methods can be applied to solve some of the challenges faced in the field of implantable materials. A significant number of studies are now focusing on surface modifications at the nanometer scale or various coatings for improved corrosion resistance and biological interactions. Although not yet commercially available, a TiZr alloy with a nanostructured surface and embedded biologically active substances, such as antibiotics or coated with hydroxyapatite, may become a future option.

A Fresh Perspective on Medium Entropy Alloys Applications as Coating and Coating Substrate

“…Although not an extreme environment, the alloys used as biomaterials need a specific set of properties, such as high strength, superior corrosion resistance and Young's modulus close to that of the human bone to avoid "stress shielding" [67]. One such alloy, based on the traditional TiZr alloy which has outstanding biocompatibility [68,69] is the Ti45Zr37Nb16Fe1Mo1, having a tensile strength over 700 MPa and Young's modulus below 63 GPa [70]. The Zr50Ti35Nb15 MEA also shows a promising combination of mechanical properties, having an Young's modulus of 62 GPa, an yield strength of 657 MPa and great corrosion resistance [71].…”

Sustainable Coatings on Metallic Alloys as a Nowadays Challenge

“…Several coatings have been proposed to help with this issue, FeCrAl, CrAlN, CrAlSiN, SiC, CN, Cr [87][88][89][90][91][92]. Moreover, zirconium and zirconium alloys are used as implant materials, having great biocompatibility [93][94][95].…”

Characterization of Three Surface Treatments on TiZr—Coating Properies and Corrosion Behavior

“…A very recent paper [13] with a combined critical and scientometric approach has led to the clear conclusion that Ti 50 Zr alloys have all the characteristics of a very good biomaterial, exhibiting great biocompatibility, and having significantly improved mechanical properties [14]. Both Ti and Zr being valve metals are naturally protected against corrosion due to a layer of oxides, that can be easily further improved through thermal oxidation or other procedures, such as anodizing in one or more steps with pretreatments and posttreatments or sol-gel coatings which can be used to elaborate various nanostructures that enhance cellular interactions [15,16].…”