Corrosion and wear performance of β-Ti based biomedical shape memory alloys

Abstract

The corrosion performances and tribological behaviors of β-type Ti–V–Al based biomedical shape memory alloys were systematically investigated through electrochemical experiments and reciprocating friction and wear tests. The results revealed significant distinctions in corrosion performances between the Ti–V–Al–Zr and Ti–V–Al–Sn shape memory alloys, which can be attributed to the difference in the types of oxides formed during the corrosion process. In comparison, Ti–V–Al based shape memory alloys exhibited superior corrosion properties by adding an Sn alloying element. In addition, adding the moderate Sn alloying element could significantly improve the wear resistance compared with Ti–V–Al–Zr shape memory alloys. In summary, the present study provided a theoretical basis for the selection of Ti–V–Al based shape memory alloys applied for various biomedical fields.