J. Mater. Sci. Technol. ›› 2021, Vol. 62: 173-179.DOI: 10.1016/j.jmst.2020.05.056

• Research Article • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Additively manufactured heterogeneously porous metallic bone with biostructural functions and bone-like mechanical properties

Pan Wanga,*(), Xinwei Lib, Shumin Luoa, Mui Ling Sharon Naia, Jun Dingb, Jun Weia   

  1. aSingapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology, A*STAR, 73 Nanyang Drive, 637662, Singapore
    bDepartment of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 117576, Singapore
  • Received:2020-04-07 Revised:2020-05-10 Accepted:2020-05-17 Published:2021-01-30 Online:2021-02-01
  • Contact: Pan Wang
  • About author:* E-mail address: wangp@SIMTech.a-star.edu.sg (P. Wang).

Abstract:

A compatible artificial bone implant requires large pores for enhanced nutrients transports, small pores to allow cell seeding and bone-like mechanical properties to avoid stress shielding. Herein, we report novel improved gyroid lattices with millimetre-scaled gyroid wall spacings and micrometre-scaled additional pores on the walls. Designs are successfully fabricated by electron beam melting using Ti-6Al-4V to high part qualities while exhibiting bone-like mechanical properties with a range of Young’s modulus of 8-15 GPa and strength of 150-250 MPa. The improved design also eliminates brittle failure by allowing the structure to deform more stably.

Key words: Microlattice, Metallic bone, Implant, Electron beam melting, 3D printing