Surface Engineering of Ti13Zr13Nb Biomaterial Alloy with Gold Via Laser Melting for Enhanced Biocompatibility and Functional Performance

Abstract Intermetallic phases, such as Ti 3 Au, are promising biomaterials, because they have better mechanical properties and improved corrosion resistance in body fluids compared to other metallic biomaterials. Using Ti 3 Au surface layers can improve bone and dental implants and materials in contact with body fluids, such as those in ventricular assist devices. This study concentrated on the dynamic thermal trajectories of laser processing and the mechanistic effects of convection during this process to determine the influence of laser-assisted microalloying on the formation of intermetallics in the surface layer. We also examined the wear properties of laser-formed surface layers on gold-enriched TiZrNb alloy under simulated walking conditions, combined with nanoindentation testing, and carried out cytotoxicity tests to verify the effectiveness of the original method for creating biocompatible, durable surface layers. A comparative analysis was conducted using a series of process parameters, including scan speeds ranging from 2.0 to 3.0 mm/s and laser power ranging between 75 and 125 W. Theoretical results from simulations for a Representative Volume Element (RVE) with the properties of non-gold-enriched material, pure gold, and pure Ti 3 Au were also reported. The findings indicate an increase in the hardness of the surface layers due to the growth of Ti 3 Au nanocrystals in the TiZrNb matrix, with no observed cytotoxicity. The enthalpy curves obtained from the study of the TiZrNb alloy are crucial for the future optimization of the process. Graphical Abstract