Study of the tribocorrosion behaviour of Ti6Al4V-HA biocomposites

This study is concern with tribocorrosion behaviour of Ti6Al4V-HA biocomposites. The Ti6Al4V composites reinforced with different contents of hydroxyapatite (HA) particles 5-15%, vol%) were produced by hot pressing technique. The tribocorrosion tests were performed by using a ball-on-plate configuration in artificial saliva at 37 degrees C. The tests were carried out under open circuit potential (OCP), with a sliding duration of 1800 s, 1 N normal load and 1 Hz frequency. The open circuit potential and wear mechanisms for all tested biocomposites are presented and discussed. The results suggest that HA plays a relevant role on tribocorrosion behaviour of Ti6Al4V-HA composites. All composites samples presented better wear resistance and also a relatively lower tendency to corrosion with increasing HA content.