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New Insights on the Tribological Characteristics of Biomedical Ti–Mo Alloys Influenced by Microalloying Addition in Simulated Bodily Fluids

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Abstract

Titanium–molybdenum-based alloys are widely used as an orthodontic arch wire for performing an orthodontic mechanotherapy. However, the poor tribological behaviour of titanium-based alloys, in terms of high and unstable friction, severe adhesive wear; low resistance to abrasion has become a major setback. Herein, Ti94Mo6Xn(x = Nb, Ta, Zr and Sn) alloys were fabricated by arc melting and the effect of Nb, Ta, Zr and Sn minor-additions on tribological properties of βtype biomedical Ti-alloys in simulated body fluid (Ringer’s SBF solution) was studied. Additionally, the post-test characteristics, and morphology were studied by XRD, pin-on-disk tester, nano-indentation, 3D confocal microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results showed that anti-friction resistance rate and the extent of anti-wear resistance improved by up to 40% and 43% with Sn and Nb minor addition, respectively. It was exciting that these functionalised Ti–Mo-based alloys had higher friction and wear resistance than the commonly used Ti–6Al–4 V alloys, which can be beneficial for many biomedical applications.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Mechanical and Construction, Northumbria University, Sutherland Building, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 8ST, UK

    P. S. Nnamchi

  2. Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, University of Nigeria Nsukka, P.O.Box 400001, Nsukka, Enugu state, Nigeria

    P. S. Nnamchi, V. S. Aigbodion & C. S. Obayi

  3. Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Power and Energy Development, Nsukka, Nigeria

    P. S. Nnamchi, V. S. Aigbodion & C. S. Obayi

  4. Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Johannesburg, P. O. Box 534, Auckland Park, South Africa

    V. S. Aigbodion

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Correspondence to V. S. Aigbodion.

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Nnamchi, P.S., Aigbodion, V.S. & Obayi, C.S. New Insights on the Tribological Characteristics of Biomedical Ti–Mo Alloys Influenced by Microalloying Addition in Simulated Bodily Fluids. J Bio Tribo Corros 8, 94 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40735-022-00694-w

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40735-022-00694-w

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