Recent advances in Ti-6Al-4V additively manufactured by selective laser melting for biomedical implants: Prospect development

Abstract

Recently, additive manufacturing (AM), being part of IR4.0, received great attention for the fabrication of cus-tomized implants with outstanding quality, which are used in hard tissue replacement. For an orthopedic ap-plication, the titanium alloy implants, especially those that use Ti-6Al-4V manufactured by selective laser melting (SLM), should facilitate maximum osteointegration between the implant and corresponding bone. However, the superior mechanical characteristics, poor surface integration, antibacterial performance, and readiness of SLM Ti-6Al-4V for use in advanced implants are still not comparable to those of anatomical bone. This review focused on the current issue of stress-shielding limitations in SLM Ti-6Al-4V owing to failures in load-bearing applications. The surface treatment and modification strategy that might improve the osseointegration of the implant were discussed. The corrosion resistance of SLM Ti-6Al-4V which could significantly affect antibacterial capability, improve cell adherence and apatite formation on the bone remodeling surface was also addressed. Finally, the current challenges, prospects and applications for SLM Ti-6Al-4V development were presented.