Corrosion resistance and in vitro response of laser‐deposited Ti‐Nb‐Zr‐Ta alloys for orthopedic implant applications

Abstract

While direct metal deposition of metallic powders, via laser deposition, to form near-net shape orthopedic implants is an upcoming and highly promising technology, the corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of such novel metallic biomaterials is relatively unknown and warrants careful investigation. This article presents the results of some initial studies on the corrosion resistance and in vitro response of laser-deposited Ti-Nb-Zr-Ta alloys. These new generation beta titanium alloys are promising due to their low elastic modulus as well as due the fact that they comprise of completely biocompatible alloying elements. The results indicate that the corrosion resistance of these laser-deposited alloys is comparable and in some cases even better than the currently used commercially-pure (CP) titanium (Grade 2) and Ti-6Al-4V ELI alloys. The in vitro studies indicate that the Ti-Nb-Zr-Ta alloys exhibit comparable cell proliferation but enhanced cell differentiation properties as compared with Ti-6Al-4V ELI.

Electrochemical properties, chemical composition and thickness of passive film formed on novel Ti–20Nb–10Zr–5Ta alloy

“…Based on the results of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy it was suggested that a bilayer passive film was formed after oxidation of the Ti-29Nb-13Ta-4.6ZrTZ alloy at 1.0 V in Hanks' physiological solution [23]. The behaviour of the Ti-35Nb-7Zr-5Ta alloy was comparable to that of Ti-6Al-4V in Ringer solution [24].…”

Investigation of early stage deformation mechanisms in a metastable β titanium alloy showing combined twinning-induced plasticity and transformation-induced plasticity effects

“…During the past few decades, interest in titanium alloys has been continuously increasing due to their combination of properties such as high strength [1][2][3][4][5][6], low density, biocompatibility [7][8][9][10] and good corrosion resistance [11,12]. However, both their low ductility (uniform elongation typically less than 0.20) and their lack of strain-hardening when compared with steels or Co-Cr alloys [11,13] limit their use in advanced applications where superior combinations of strength and ductility are required.…”

Numerical evaluation of reduction of stress shielding in laser coated hip prostheses

“…However, the possibility that TNTZ coating on Ti-6Al-4V hip prostheses can improve the latter's performance should be considered a promising one. According to reports in the literature [23][24][25] , new β-type TNTZ alloys present mechanical and biochemical properties that render them suitable for application as prosthetic coatings or in the prosthetic stem itself. Of course, accreditation by a competent agency is required and certification may take some time.…”