Perspectives on Additive Manufacturing Enabled Beta- Titanium Alloys for Biomedical Applications

Abstract

“Stress shielding” caused by the mismatch of modulus between the implant and natural bones, is one of the major problems faced by current commercially used biomedical materials. Beta-titanium (β-Ti) alloys are a class of materials that have received increased interest in the biomedical field due to their relatively low elastic modulus and excellent biocompatibility. Due to their lower modulus, β-Ti alloys have the potential to reduce “stress shielding.” Powder bed fusion (PBF), a category of additive manufacturing, or more commonly known as 3D printing techniques, has been used to process β-Ti alloys. In this perspective article, the emerging research of PBF of β-Ti alloys is covered. The potential and limitations of using PBF for these materials in biomedical applications are also elucidated with focus on the perspectives from processes, materials, and designs. Finally, future trends and potential research topics are highlighted.