Processing and characterization of mechanical and biocompatibility properties of (TiZrNbTa)90Cu10-xAgx and (TiZrNbMo)90Cu10-xAgx (X = 0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10 at%) multicomponent alloys designed for the biomedical applications

Abstract

This doctoral project aims to conduct a comprehensive investigation on the synthesis and advanced microstructural characterization of multicomponent alloys in the (TiZrNbTa)90Cu10-xAgx and (TiZrNbMo)90Cu10-xAgx systems, where x = 0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10 at%, exhibiting a body-centered cubic (BCC) crystal structure. These alloys, containing non-toxic elements, have not been previously documented in the literature. The synthesis of alloys will involve arc melting under a controlled atmosphere, followed by specific heat treatments and high-pressure torsion (HPT) to enhance mechanical properties and biocompatibility. Previous studies have demonstrated that severe plastic deformation techniques, particularly HPT, can enhance the biocompatibility of titanium and its alloys through the accumulation of plastic deformation and the formation of ultrafine grains. Cell viability assessment of the alloys before and after HPT processing will be conducted using direct cytotoxicity assays (MTT test) and flow cytometry (DNA fragmentation and cell cycle analysis). The obtained results are anticipated to provide insights into the processing-structure-property relationships of these alloys, advancing their competitive application as biomaterials. Thus, the primary objective of this doctoral project is to fabricate and optimize multicomponent alloys based on the (TiZrNbTa)90Cu10-xAgx and (TiZrNbMo)90Cu10-xAgx systems with a BCC structure for potential use as biomaterials. To achieve this, the following specific objectives will be pursued:*Comprehensive understanding of the (TiZrNbTa)90Cu10-xAgx and (TiZrNbMo)90Cu10-xAgx systems, which have been minimally explored in the literature, with regards to their biomaterial potential.*Microstructural, mechanical, and cytotoxicity characterization of the alloys to facilitate comparison with traditional biomaterials reported in the literature, aiming for a better understanding of their properties.*Evaluation of the impact and significance of incorporating heat treatments and HPT processing steps in the alloys, aiming to enhance biocompatibility through improved nanoscale dispersion and deformation behavior. (AU)