Osteosynthesis plates with stiffness gradient based on metastable beta titanium alloys: theoretical and experimental analyses

Abstract

Functional gradient materials exhibit high potential for application in the manufacturing of orthopedic devices for implantation as they can minimize collateral effects related to implants in the human body. Titanium alloys can be tailored to obtain materials with functional gradients as their mechanical properties can be controlled by addition of specific alloying elements or by imposing appropriate processing routes. This work aims to develop bone fracture fixation plates based on Ti alloys with functional gradients. Another purpose of this project is to analyze mechanical behavior of these plates by carrying out mechanical tests with axial loading. A third objective is to numerically evaluate stress and strain in a bone tissue with an implant with and without functional gradients, in individuals developing habitual physical activities and using the finite element method. At the end of this work, it is intended to advance in the materials development with a gradient of stiffness for orthopedic prosthesis applications and to provide relevant information on the use of the Ti-30Nb-4Sn alloy in this application. (AU)