| Abstract Scope |
Ti-36Nb-2Ta-3Zr-0.3O (TNTZ-O) is a promising titanium alloy for biomedical use due to its biocompatibility, high strength, and low Young’s modulus. This study explores how heat treatments affect its mechanical and tribological performance. Three distinct microstructures were investigated: a β-phase structure, and samples containing α and ω phases within a β matrix. Samples were analyzed using SEM, XRF, and optical microscopy, and compared to Ti Grade 4 and Ti-6Al-4V ELI. The β-phase sample exhibited high ductility but lower strength and limited frictional stability. The α+β sample provided a well-balanced combination of strength and ductility, while the sample containing ω phase showed the highest strength and wear resistance, though with increased brittleness. Tribological tests revealed adhesive wear in the β and α+β samples, while the ω-containing sample demonstrated improved frictional stability. Overall, TNTZ-O displayed microstructure-dependent wear behavior, with the α+β configuration appearing most promising for broader biomedical applications. |