Structure, mechanical properties and grindability of dental Ti–10Zr–X alloys

This study aimed to investigate the structure, mechanical properties and grindability of a binary Ti–Zr alloy added to a series of alloying elements (Nb, Mo, Cr and Fe). The phase and structure of Ti–10Zr–X alloys were evaluated using an X-ray diffraction (XRD) for phase analysis and optical microscope for microstructure of the etched alloys. Three-point bending tests were performed using a desk-top mechanical tester. Grindability was evaluated by measuring the amount of metal volume removed after grinding for 1 min at each of the four rotational speeds of the wheel (500, 750, 1000 or 1200 m/min). Results were compared with c.p. Ti, which was chosen as a control. Results indicated that the phase/crystal structure, microstructure, mechanical properties and grindability of the Ti–10Zr alloy can be significantly changed by adding small amounts of alloying elements. The alloying elements Nb, Mo, Cr and Fe contributed significantly to increasing the grinding ratio under all grinding conditions, although the grinding rate of all the metals was found to be largely dependent on grinding speed. The Ti–10Zr–1Mo alloy showed increases in microhardness (63%), bending strength (40%), bending modulus (30%) and elastic recovery angle (180%) over those of c.p. Ti, and was also found to have better grindability. The Ti–10Zr–1Mo alloy could therefore be used for prosthetic dental applications if other conditions necessary for dental casting are met.