Ti-6Al-4V/hydroxyapatite composite coatings prepared by thermal spray techniques

The poor mechanical properties of hydroxyapatite (HA) can be enhanced by forming a composite with a bioinert and mechanically strong metal alloy such as Ti-6Al-4V. Biomedical composites composed of titanium alloys and HA can offer concomitant bioactive properties as well as good mechanical strength and toughness. This paper describes an attempt to improve coating mechanical properties by forming a composite composed of HA and Ti-6Al-4V. Several compositions (20, 33, and 80 wt % HA) were prepared. Subsequent examination of the plasma-sprayed coatings revealed alternating HA-rich and titanium-rich lamella microstructures. The HA-rich regions appeared porous as a result of poor interparticle adhesion, with the 80 wt % HA coatings having the highest porosity. Mechanical property analysis showed the 20 wt % HA coating to have the highest storage modulus (∼60 GPa). This coating also had the highest bond strength (≥20 MPa max). The coatings tended to exhibit increased bond strength at thicknesses less than or equal to 60 μm. The excellent bond strength of the Ti-6Al-4V/HA composite is caused by the superior interfacial bond between the Ti-6Al-4V-rich splats and the substrate. The encouraging development of this composite raises the possibility of its use as a bond coat for plasma-sprayed HA on titanium-alloy implants.