Development of Biocompatible Ti- Based Alloy with Improved Mechanical and In Vitro Corrosion Properties for Implant Applications [Phase I]

The main aim of the proposed research is to develop a Ti-based alloy in-house in an attempt to produce an implant material with improved service life. In this research proposal (phase I), we intended to design and fabricate a Ti-based alloy from biocompatible elements by powder metallurgy method with enhanced mechanical and in vitro corrosion properties. The designed alloy will be synthesized from elemental powders using mechanical alloying, then the mechanically alloyed powder will be sintered. A variety of characterization techniques will be used to assess the structure, microstructure, microhardness, modulus of elasticity, and in vitro corrosion performance of the new proposed alloy including XRD, FE-SEM/EDS, TEM, HV, and nanoindentation. The in vitro corrosion resistance will be evaluated in a simulated physiological environment. This research is motivated by the need of the KSA for bone replacement with implants made from artificial materials as the proportion of elderly persons expected to reach approximately about 12% and 23% by 2030 and 2050 respectively. Hence, the demand for bone replacement with implants made from artificial materials is also increasing. Also, to establish research directions with promising market need as the global market for medical implants is growing and registering a Compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2 % from 2020 to 2027. The project goal will contribute to achieving the main goals of the applied research and vision 2030 of the Kingdome through reinforcing and diversification of national income, developing competitive researchers which concentrate on the necessary national needs with its economic impacts. And Implementing the Kingdoms vision for building a society of knowledge and a knowledge-based economy