Tribocorrosion response of Ti6Al4V alloy/HDPE composites for biomedical applications

Titanium alloys are widely employed in orthopedic devices, particularly in total hip joints, owing to their favorable biocompatibility and resistance to corrosion. Nevertheless, wear can negatively influence the corrosion behavior. In order to optimize the interplay between corrosion and mechanical wear in artificial joints, Ti6Al4V/HDPE composites were assessed through tribocorrosion trials under conditions similar to the “in vivo” setting. In the current study, cuttlebone, red coral and MoS 2 were incorporated into polymer matrix to investigate their assignments in tribocorrosion behavior of Ti6Al4V. The tribocorrosion experiments were carried out on a specialized equipment in bovine serum (30 g/L protein). Open‑circuit potential measurements were recorded before, during, and after sliding stage, while the coefficient of friction was evaluated throughout slipping. The worn areas were examined by scanning electron microscopy. The results showed an improved friction, wear, and corrosion performance for the HDPE composite/Ti6Al4V. Experimental findings indicate that the added fillers promote the development of a tribo‑protective layer on the metallic area. Furthermore, proteins were observed to shield the titanium alloy against corrosion, thereby enhancing its tribocorrosion performance.