Tribocorrosion behavior of β-type Ti-Nb-Ga alloys in a physiological solution

Tribo-electrochemical behavior in physiological solution of two β-type (100-x)(Ti-45Nb)-xGa (x = 4, 8 wt%) alloys, alongside β-Ti-45Nb and medical grade Ti-6Al-4V ELI, was investigated. Microstructure and mechanical behavior were evaluated by X-ray diffraction, microhardness and ultrasonic method. Tribocorrosion tests (open circuit potential, anodic potentiostatic tests) were performed using a reciprocating pin-on-disk tribometer under constant load. Degradation mechanisms are similar for the alloys: plastic deformation, delamination, abrasive and adhesive wear. Among the β-Ti-Nb alloys, an improved wear resistance with lower damage was remarked for β-92(Ti-45Nb)-8Ga alloy, attributed to increased microhardness. Content of Ga3+ ions released in the test solutions were found to be in very low amounts (few ppb). Addition of Ga to Ti-45Nb resulted in improved corrosion resistance under mechanical loading.