Mechanical properties and cytotoxic evaluation of the Ti-3Nb-13Zr alloy

Abstract

Ti-13Nb-13Zr is a new titanium alloy that was originally developed for medical implant applications. This alloy combines a low elastic modulus, high strength, excellent hot and cold workability, and superior corrosion resistance. Research on this alloy has shown that the mechanical properties can be controlled over a significant range through hot working, heat treatment and cold-working. The present study describes the mechanical properties and cytotoxic evaluation of the Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloy, which was produced by furnace arc melting in argon atmosphere. The elemental constituents were unalloyed Ti, Nb and Zr sheets. The obtained ingots, which initial diameter were about 15 mm, have undergone sequences of cold-working and heat treatments in order to achieve a final diameter of 6 mm. The tensile strength of Ti-13Nb-13Zr achieved 1270 MPa (cold-worked – 60% reduction in area) and 860 MPa after heat treatment (60% reduction in area + 1000 o C/1h + water quenched). The elastic module were 52 GPa and 60 GPa respectively. Furthermore, the toxic effect of this alloy on cells was evaluated by a cytotoxicity test, a quantitative method of colony suppression assay using Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cultured cells in contact with diluted extracts of the biomaterials. The results showed that Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloy obtained by furnace arc melting isn’t cytotoxic.