In this study, the biocompatibility and degradation behavior of a low elastic modulus Ti-35Nb-3Zr alloy were investigated and compared with that of the conventional orthopedic and dental implant materials, i.e., commercially pure titanium (Cp-Ti) and Ti-6Al-4V alloy. The biocompatibility test results suggested that cells proliferate equally well on Ti-35Nb-3Zr and Cp-Ti. The degradation rates of Cp-Ti and Ti-6Al-4V were ∼68% (p < 0.05) and ∼84% (p < 0.05) lower as compared to Ti-35Nb-3Zr, respectively. Interestingly, the passive current density (ipass (1000mv)) of the Ti-35Nb-3Zr alloy was ∼29% lower than that of Cp-Ti, which suggests that the alloying elements in the Ti-35Nb-3Zr alloy have contributed to its passivation behavior. Nanosurface engineering of the Ti-35Nb-3Zr alloy, i.e., a two-step electrochemical process involving anodization (producing nanoporous layer) and calcium phosphate (CaP) deposition, decreased the degradation rate of the alloy by ∼83% (p < 0.05), and notably, it was similar to the conventional Ti-6Al-4V alloy. Hence, it can be suggested that the nanosurface-engineered low elastic modulus Ti-35Nb-3Zr alloy is a promising material for orthopedic and dental implant applications.
Keywords: biocompatibility; biomaterials; calcium phosphate; degradation; titanium alloy.