Mechanical and corrosion properties of highly porous Ta-Nb-Sn alloy for intervertebral disc in spinal applications

In this study, low Young’s modulus, highly porous Ta-Nb-Sn alloy foam was manufactured by using the space holder method. The aim of this study is development of an alloy with high wear resistance, with Young’s modulus, with good imaging (MRI, CT) properties, and with high bioactivity. Ta alloy foam can be used in spinal applications (intervertebral disc) or dental applications. The space holder method enables the manufacturing of open-cell foam with a low elastic modulus. Powder mixtures were prepared through mechanical alloying. Carbamide was used to form pores. Ta has suitable strength, ductility, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility. Ta has high price, however, and a high melting temperature, high activity, and high density. Nb addition lowered the melting temperature, elastic modulus, and cost of using Ta. The sinterability of Ta was enhanced by Sn addition. The corrosion behaviour of Ta alloy was examined. Young’s modulus was determined by compression and ultrasonic tests. Tomography and radiography tests were also used.