Tribological behavior study on Ti–Nb–Sn/hydroxyapatite composites in simulated body fluid solution

In this study, Ti–35Nb–2.5Sn/xhydroxyapatite (HA) composites were sintered by pulse current activated sintering (PCAS) from powders milled for different time. These sintered composites were expected to be potential biomaterials. Ca3(PO4)2 phase which could increase hardness of sintered composites was found in the Ti–35Nb–2.5Sn/15HA composite sintered from 12 h milled powders. The sintered composites had low elastic modulus (18∼26 GPa) and high compression strength. Due to the importance of friction and wear in biomaterials application, the tribological behavior of sintered composites was studied in simulated body fluid (SBF) solution. Results revealed that milling time and HA content of powders could affect wear properties of sintered composites. The major wear mechanism was abrasive wear in the wear test. The wear rate and friction coefficient decreased when milling time and HA content of powders increased. The lowest friction coefficient (0.1223) was obtained in the Ti–35Nb–2.5Sn/15HA composite sintered from 12 h milled powders, and this composite had superior wear resistance. [Display omitted] ► Low elastic modulus Ti–Nb–Sn/HA composites with high strength are synthesized by PM. ► These composites have high hardness and wear resistance in the Hank’s solution. ► COF of Ti–35Nb–2.5Sn/15HA composite sintered from 12 h milled powders is about 0.1223 in Hank’s solution. ► Milling time and HA content have an effect on the wear properties of the sintered composites.