Microwave sintering of porous Ti–Nb-HA composite with high strength and enhanced bioactivity for implant applications

Abstract In the present study, high order porous Ti–Nb(50-x)-HA(x) (x = 0,10,20 wt %) composites have been fabricated for orthopedic application by using powder metallurgical route consisting temporary space alloying and rapid microwave sintering process. Structural porosity, elastic modulus, compressive strength, corrosion resistance, and in-vitro bioactivity of as-sintered Ti–Nb-HA composites were studied. Results showed that the reinforcement of the HA assists in the formation of structural porosity, which reduced the elastic modulus. Porous Ti–Nb (with HA 10–20% content) composite possessed 40–60% structural porosity with a pore size of 150–260 μm and exhibited elastic modulus in the ra…