Microstructural aspects of Ti6Al4V degradation in H2O2-containing phosphate buffered saline

Ti6Al4V surfaces were exposed to simulated inflammation conditions in H2O2-containing phosphate buffered saline with and without FeCl3. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed significantly different degradation modes for the alpha and beta phases. While the a grains are covered by a ca. 400 nm thick protective nanostructured oxide layer, the attack of the beta phase generates a porous microstructure with microscaled cracks and a low polarization resistance. The beta phase is postulated to be sensitive to H2O2 reduction products and less able to generate a passive oxide film. The presence of FeCl3 enhances the cathodic activity and the beta phase degradation.

Automated summary

Exposure of Ti6Al4V surfaces to simulated inflammation conditions in H2O2-containing phosphate buffered saline with or without FeCl3 leads to significantly different degradation modes for the alpha and beta phases. The presence of FeCl3 enhances cathodic activity and beta phase degradation.