Additive manufacturing of titanium for biomedical implants

Project aim

Focusing on additive manufactured Ti6Al4V components for high load-bearing bone replacing implants (e.g. hip joint, knee), this will investigate additive manufactured lattice surfaces to link surface topography with manufacturing process parameters and component functional performances (e.g. fatigue strength, corrosion resistance).

Project background

Additive manufacturing is a disruptive technology that has gained attention within the healthcare industry where its metal 3D printing capabilities are used for the production of biomedical implants made of titanium and alloys. These materials are extensively used in biomedical applications for their well-known biocompatibility but they are challenging to process with conventional technologies. The use of additive manufacturing, and particularly powder bed fusion systems, present an alternative to conventional processes as well as offering many new possibilities for the design and manufacturing of implants, allowing the design of lattice-based components, the production of complex shapes, and the fabrication of customised implants. Although additive manufactured implants are currently available on the market, this project will explore ways to manufacture reliable high load-bearing implants, gain better process control and, develop an understanding of how to address current product issues, including component surface integrity and quality issues.