Vacuum sealing-assisted processing of titanium–zirconium alloys: synthesis, microstructure, hardness, friction, wear, and corrosion studies for biomedical application

The present study demonstrates the development of novel Ti-xZr (x = 5, 10, 15 and 20 wt.%) via vacuum sealing-assisted sintering technique. The microstructure, phase composition, physical, mechanical, tribological properties, and electrochemical corrosion behavior were investigated for biomedical applications. The phase composition and microstructure show the presence of α phases in as-prepared alloys. The alloys exhibit elevated hardness levels (477.59 ± 30.22 HV to 539.05 ± 27.09 HV), surpassing commercially pure titanium (cpTi, 200.26 HV) and Ti-6Al-4V (340.51 HV). Tribological studies of Ti-15Zr displays superior antifriction and antiwear properties, with a friction coefficient of 0.22 and a wear rate of 1.23 × 10^–7 mm³ per mm of sliding distance. All alloys exhibit commendable corrosion resistance in simulated body fluid, with the Ti-20Zr alloy displaying a minimum corrosion rate of 1.29 µm/year. In conclusion, the synthesized alloys demonstrate the substantial potential for biomedical applications, particularly in orthopedic and dental implants, due to enhanced mechanical characteristics, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance.