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Abstract
Increased use of titanium alloys as biomaterials is occurring due to their lower modulus,
superior biocompatibility and enhanced corrosion resistance when compared to more
conventional stainless steels and cobalt-based alloys. These attractive properties
were a driving force for the early introduction of alpha (cpTi) and alpha + beta (Ti-6A1-4V)
alloys as well as for the more recent development of new Ti-alloy compositions and
orthopaedic metastable beta titanium alloys. The later possess enhanced biocompatibility,
reduced elastic modulus, and superior strain-controlled and notch fatigue resistance.
However, the poor shear strength and wear resistance of titanium alloys have nevertheless
limited their biomedical use. Although the wear resistance of beta-Ti alloys has shown
some improvement when compared to alpha + beta alloys, the ultimate utility of orthopaedic
titanium alloys as wear components will require a more complete fundamental understanding
of the wear mechanisms involved. This review examines current information on the physical
and mechanical characteristics of titanium alloys used in artifical joint replacement
prostheses, with a special focus on those issues associated with the long-term prosthetic
requirements, e.g., fatigue and wear.