Tribocorrosion response of the Ti6Al4V alloys commonly used in femoral stems

• The tribocorrosion behavior of Ti alloys is suggested in a simulated body fluid.
• Relevant electrochemical potentials were used in reciprocating sliding conditions.
• Results showed the effect of proteins in solution when applying mechanical stress.
• Electrochemical potentials showed to influence the passive behavior of the alloy.
• Knowledge in combined action of wear and corrosion on the first biological response.

In prosthesis, tribochemical reactions occur at the stem/bone interface. When coupled with micro-motions it can lead to the loosening of the implant, osteolysis, release of metal ion and wear particles. The effect of these movements and the underlying mechanisms are quite unknown. This work investigates the tribocorrosion behavior of etched Ti6Al4V alloys under reciprocating sliding. Tests were performed in a phosphate buffer solution (PBS) containing proteins. A normal load of 1 N and anodic potentials of −0.1 and +0.5 V/SCE were applied. The destruction pathways of the top surface layers (adsorbed proteins, passive film) were studied. The results showed that the favorable/undesired effect of proteins in solution depends on the characteristics of the passive film under a mechanical stress.

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