Fabrication of an Al2O3-1% Ti Composite with some Characteristics of a Biomaterial

Abstract

An Al2O3-1 wt.% Ti composite was prepared by powder techniques with the intention of analyzing its mechanical and chemical properties for its possible application as a biomaterial. Alumina was synthesized using the reaction bonding aluminum oxide (RBAO) process. The powders resulting from the milling stage present sizes minor than 1.5 microns. With the help of X-ray diffraction and differential thermal analysis, it was determined that aluminum oxidizes in both solid and liquid states during the RBAO process. It was also found that the alumina formation reaction in this process is completed at 1,100oC. From the measurements of mechanical properties (HV, KIC, E) in the Al2O3-1 wt.% Ti composite, it was determined that these properties are better than the same properties of compact bone. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, indicates that additions of 1 wt.% Ti on Al2O3 enhance its corrosion resistance. The bioactivation of a Al2O3-1 wt.% Ti composite was successful using a biomimetic method, because after 21 days, hydroxyapatite begins to proliferate on the surface of the substrate. With all these results it can be commented that it is feasible to use Al2O3-1 wt.% Ti composite in the elaboration of synthetic bone for its application as a biomaterial.