Ti/SiO2 composite fabricated by powder metallurgy for orthopedic implant

Titanium/silica (Ti/SiO2) composites are fabricated using powder metallurgy (P/M). Nanoscale biocompatible SiO2 particles are selected as reinforcement for the Ti/SiO2 composite to enhance its biocompatibility and strength, especially when with high porosity. Effects of the SiO2 particle addition and sintering temperature on mechanical properties of the Ti/SiO2 composites are investigated. The results indicate that the mechanical property of Ti/SiO2 composites sintered at 1100 °C are better than those at 900 and 1000 °C. The strength of the Ti/SiO2 composites is significantly higher than that of pure titanium. The composite with the SiO2 content of 2 wt% sintered at 1100 °C for 4 h shows an appropriate mechanical property with a relative density of 96.5%, a compressive strength of 1566 MPa and good plasticity (an ultimate strain of 15.96%). In vitro results reveal that the Ti/SiO2 composite possesses excellent biocompatibility and cell adhesion. Osteoblast-like cells grow and spread well on the surfaces of the Ti/SiO2 composites. The Ti/SiO2 composite is a promising material for great potential used as an orthopedic implant material.