Surface functionalization and characterization of porous Ti-6Al-4V alloy made by additive manufacturing for mandible prosthesis

Abstract

The additive manufacturing (AM) technique has as one significant advantage the directfrom-CAD production of complex geometries. In this regard, physical biomodels, medical devices, and customized implants can be made by AM based on medical images obtained from computerized tomography, magnetic resonance, or ultrasound. Furthermore, the technique can also produce tailored cellular structures. These porous structures can achieve a better mechanical biocompatibility with the bone preventing the stress shielding. Finally, the pores allow bone ingrowth to enhance bone-implant interlocking, promoting faster and long-lasting adaptation.The main objective of this post-doctoral research is to produce a Ti-6Al-4V mandible implant with functionalized cellular structure. In this regard, this BEPE project focuses on the functionalization and characterization of the implant surface. Cellular structured Ti-6Al-4V alloy samples will be produced by electron beam melting and functionalized by anodizing process to fabricate F and P- doped nanostructured anodic oxide layers with antibacterial and osteogenic properties. The surfaces will be characterized by scanning electron microscopy, contact angle, and roughness measurements. Furthermore, corrosion, wear, and tribocorrosion properties will be studied to ensure the stability of the surfaces. It is expected that from these complete characterization results in reduced surgery risks, faster patient recovery, longer implant durability, better aesthetic and ergonomic results, and, above all, improvements in patient's quality of life.