Affiliation:
1. Institut für Werkstoffkunde (Materials Science) Leibniz Universität Hannover An der Universität 2 30823 Garbsen Germany
2. Department of Prosthetic Dentistry and Biomedical Materials Research Hannover Medical School Carl‐Neuberg‐Strasse 1 30625 Hannover Germany
Abstract
Many metallic implant materials, such as Ti–6Al–4V, contain elements that are now considered to be critical and have high Young's modulus compared to the human bone, leading to stress shielding. Nb–1Zr alloys, which are free of toxic elements and feature Young's modulus closer to human bone, present a promising alternative. The present study investigates the co‐extrusion of a biocompatible Nb–1Zr powder for potential use in dental implants. A process chain to coextrude Nb–1Zr powder into a solid body was developed, focusing on eliminating core fractures and reducing void fraction. Experimental parameters, including die angle, preheating temperature, and extrusion ratio, were optimized to achieve a continuous Nb–1Zr core. Metallographic analysis and mechanical testing reveal that profiles extruded at 1275 °C exhibit the most favorable properties, with a minimal void fraction of 0.003%, good compressive strength of 457 MPa, and microhardness of 180 HV 1. Controlled oxidation of the powder further enhances hardness to 501 HV 1, achieving values similar to Ti–6Al–4V. The findings demonstrate the feasibility of producing high‐strength, biocompatible Nb–1Zr profiles through optimized co‐extrusion processes.
Funder
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft