Corrosion Behavior of Selective Laser Melting (SLM) Manufactured Ti6Al4V Alloy in Saline and BCS Solution

The frequency of surgeries involving the use metal implants in orthopedic medicine to replace degenerative or fractured joints is increasing, and it therefore important optimize lifespan quality these implants. Advances additive manufacturing (AM), 3D printing, are creating new opportunities personalize ways that reduce mechanical stress at joint implant interface improve bone ingrowth stability; however, not well understood if what degree AM process alters corrosion behavior materials produces. In this study, six Ti6Al4V prints manufactured via a selective laser melting (SLM) method were examined regarding their both saline bovine calf serum (BCS) solutions. Ecorr Icorr values comparable between CM-Ti6Al4V control SLM-EDM surfaces; SLM surfaces found have more narrow passivation evidenced by significant decreases Epass relative CM-Ti6Al4V. We believe consequence microstructural differences SLM-Ti6Al4V. Specifically, SLM-Ti6Al4V demonstrated dominant α′ martensitic microstructure decreased vanadium-rich β-phase. BCS solution had detrimental effect on potential parameters, OCP, decreasing counterparts. Increased surface roughness SLM-printed seemed amplify effects solution. Furthermore, modest Ipass observed solution, suggesting presence protein may also interfere with behavior. These findings implications for how will perform vivo could possibly influence longevity performance.