Hydroxyapatite granule implantation into superplastic titanium alloy

To obtain a biomaterial which has both biological affinity and high mechanical strengths, the hydroxyapatite granules were implanted into surperplastic Ti-4.5Al-3V-2Pe-2Mo alloy substrates. It is known that this alloy becomes superplastic when heated to approximately 750 degrees C. Hydroxyapatite granules (32-38 mu m in diameter) were spread over the alloy and pressed with a plunger. The granules were implanted into the substrate under 8.5 MPa at 750 degrees C for 10 min. Granules were firmly bonded to the substrate. Granules adhered to the alloy were closed and product layers formed at the interface. The hydroxyapatite-granule-implanted titanium alloy was expected to be useful for biomaterials for artificial bones and dental roots.