The effect of pore geometry on the mechanical properties of selective laser melted Ti-13Nb-13Zr scaffolds

Selective laser melting (SLM) is a promising technique for the production of biometallic scaffolds for orthopedic applications due to its ability for fast turnover times and production of customised complex geometrical parts. The present work demonstrates the production of various unit cell design scaffolds of low E-modulus Ti-xNb-yZr beta titanium. 3 Unit cells were produced at 3 different pore sizes (1000, 750 and 500 mu m). Micro-CT and compression testing was carried out for each design showing a stiffness range within the range of bone. (C) 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.