Structural, Mechanical and Tribological Properties of Hydroxiapatite Reinforced Ti13Nb13Zr/HA Composite Produced by Friction Stir Process (FSP)

Many modification methods are applied to produce Ti-based biomedical materials. In this study, the structural, mechanical and tribological properties of unreinforced Ti13Nb13Zr alloy and Ti13Nb13Zr/HA composites with different contents of hydroxyapatite (HA) reinforcement were investigated by friction stir processing (FSP) to Ti13Nb13Zr alloy. SEM, FTIR and EDS analyzes were performed to determine the structural properties. Surface roughness values were determined using a 3D optical microscope. Surface wettability properties were investigated with a contact angle. Microhardness and wear test devices were used to determine the mechanical and tribological properties, respectively. Wear tests were carried out in a dry environment and phosphate buffered saline solution (PBS). The wear tracks were analyzed by SEM and 3D optical microscope. As a result of FTIR analysis, HA has PO43−, HPO42−, CO32− and OH− bonds. All samples exhibited hydrophilic surfaces suitable for cell adhesion. The FSP process increased the hardness and wear resistance of the Ti13Nb13Zr alloy in both atmospheres. In addition, Ti13Nb13Zr/HA composites significantly increased the hardness and wear resistance of Ti13Nb13Zr alloy and Ti13Nb13Zr alloy modified by FSP.