Processing and characterization of porous titanium for implants by using NaCl as space holder

Porous samples of commercially pure titanium (CP Ti) were fabricated by using sodium chloride (NaCl) as space-holder with percentages between 40 and 70 vol%. The dissolution of NaCl in distilled water, the structural integrity of samples and the reproducibility of the procedure were studied as a step prior to sintering. All these parameters were evaluated in terms of the compaction pressure, temperature and agitation of water, and dissolution time. The characterization of samples included density, porosity and dynamic Young's modulus. The results indicate that the most efficient lixiviation, according to the desired balance of properties, was by immersion in hot water, without agitation and for prolonged cycles of immersion time. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.