Development and characterization of biodegradable FeMnAg-materials used for the SLM-process

• Applicants: Professor Dr.-Ing. Guido Grundmeier; Dr. Jessica Meißner, since 10/2020; Professor Dr.-Ing. Mirko Schaper
• Subject Area: Metallurgical, Thermal and Thermomechanical Treatment of Materials ; Biomaterials ; Mechanical Properties of Metallic Materials and their Microstructural Origins
• Term: from 2018 to 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 414365989

The aim of the research project is to develop and characterize bioresorbable FeMnAg-alloys and their additive manufacturing qualification, specifically in selective laser melting. The cooperative approach includes the development, production and characterization of additively manufactured structures made of conventionally immiscible alloys with strongly different melting points such as FeAg. Because of the potential application of resorbable implants in biomedical engineering, the biocompatibility and lower degradation rates of these structures compared to pure iron alloys are of particular interest aside from consistent production.These new and innovative alloys present novel challenges to process management in selective laser melting and in the post-processing of the components. In addition to the microstructural properties, the distribution, including size, structure and shape of the alloying partner, must be adjusted to control degradation rates. Since particles released into the tissue during the implant’s degradation will be phagocytized, they must consist of a modified, biocompatible, non-corrosion-resistant noble metal alloy which still needs to be developed. The interaction of the alloying elements, specifically manganese, with the noble metal must be addressed. Due to its antibacterial effect, investigations will begin with silver as the main alloying element.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Ehemaliger Antragsteller: Professor Dr. Manfred Kietzmann, until 9/2020