Influence of Zirconium on Microstructure, Corrosion Resistance and Hardness of Titanium-Based Biomaterials

Abstract

The quality of life and longevity of people have improved due to advances in medicine and biomaterials. However, there is a risk with musculoskeletal diseases, as well as with the life cycles of implantable devices. To prevent revision surgeries, biomaterials require high biocompatibility, ductility, fatigue and wear resistance and an elastic modulus matching human cortical bone, alongside being non-cytotoxic. Tiitanium alloys are commonly used in orthopedic surgery due to their biocompatibility and mechanical properties. Titanium alloys are commonly used in orthopedic surgery far their biocompatibility and mechanical properties. However, the standard Ti-6Al-4V alloy releases aluminum ions, related to neurodegenerative conditions, and vanadium ions, which is considered toxic and carcinogenic. Consequently, research facuses on novel alloys, such as Ti-Mo and Ti-Mo-Zr, which are expected to be less toxic and more corrosion resistant. This study examines the microstructure, microhardness and chemical properties of two titanium alloys to facilitate their application in biomedical devices to improve patient quality of life and reduce the need far revision surgeries.