Processing and Characterization of Titanium–Tricalcium Phosphate Metal Matrix Composite for Biomedical Applications

Titanium-tricalcium phosphate (Ti-TCP) metal matrix composites are one of the best biomaterials that have attracted significant attention in recent years. These composites consist of a titanium matrix reinforced with tricalcium phosphate (TCP) particles, which imparts improved mechanical and biological properties. The unique properties of Ti-TCP composites make them suitable for use in various biomedical applications such as dental and orthopaedic implants. The processing of Ti-TCP composites involves several techniques such as powder metallurgy, hot pressing, and sintering. In this work, powder metallurgy method is used for the production of Ti-TCP composites. In this method, the powders of Ti and TCP are mixed together in a ball mill to obtain a homogenous mixture. The mixture is then compacted into a desired shape and sintered at high temperature and pressure. In this process we prepared three samples of Ti and TCP by varying the weight ratio and these samples are characterized by techniques such as microstructural analysis, mechanical testing, and biocompatibility testing. Microstructural analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) reveals the morphology and distribution of the Ti and TCP particles in the composite. Mechanical testing such as Density and compression testing evaluates the mechanical properties of the composite. Biocompatibility testing involves in vitro to assess the biocompatibility, osteointegration, and biodegradation properties of the composite.