[Detalii proiect în limba română]
Project title: Experimental model for biofunctionalization of Ti-Mo-Zr-Ta alloys used in orthopedic implantology (BIO-SIMTIT)
Period: 08/01/2025 – 31/12/2026
Acronym: BIO-SIMTIT
Call: Experimental Demonstration Project (PED), Program 5.7 – Partnership for Innovation, Subprogram 5.7.1 – Partnerships for Competitiveness
Funder: Executive Unit for Financing Higher Education, Research, Development and Innovation (UEFISCDI), Romania
Abstract:
The project aims at the development and validation of Ti-Mo-Zr-Ta titanium alloys for orthopedic implants, structuring itself around several well-defined objectives, each closely related to the expected results. The feasibility of the project is based on a robust methodology, advanced technological processes and a clear understanding of the market and medical requirements. The project aims to achieve the following relevant aspects: 1. Creation of a solution that significantly improves current methodologies in orthopedic materials. 2. Addressing and solving a specific need, identified in orthopedic implantology. 3. Ensuring that the solution is sustainable, easy to use and scalable. The project presentation is illustrated in the figure.
Novelty:
The BIO-SIMTIT project approach brings significant progress in orthopedic implant technology by applying an innovative method of biofunctionalization of Ti-Mo-Zr-Ta alloys. This method allows for improved bone integration and biocompatibility, essential elements for the long-term success of implants.
Originality:
The project is distinguished by the combined use of SLM technology for precise alloy fabrication and the application of a biomimetic hydroxyapatite surface treatment, thus offering a unique and personalized solution for each clinical case. This integrated strategy transforms the way materials are adapted to meet the specific needs of patients in the field of orthopedics.
[EN] Project Objective
The main objective of the BIO-SIMTIT project is to develop an advanced biofunctionalization method for Ti-Mo-Zr-Ta alloys, with the aim of bringing something new to the orthopedic implantology sector. In this project, three different alloys will be subjected to a biofunctionalization process. These alloys will be characterized preliminarily and after biofunctionalization to evaluate and confirm the improvements achieved. The optimal solution obtained from these investigations will be used to create an orthopedic plate as an experimental model. This approach not only underlines the project’s commitment to innovation, but also its focus on practical applications in the field of orthopedic implantology. To achieve the demonstration model, the following steps are considered: material selection (Ti, Mo, Zr and Ta), alloy development, biofunctionalization by biomimetic methods with hydroxyapatite, alloy characterization (before and after biofunctionalization) and the fabrication of an orthopedic plate with the optimal alloy, followed by its testing and validation.
[RO] Obiectiv Proiect
Obiectivul principal al proiectului BIO-SIMTIT este dezvoltarea unei metode avansate de biofuncționalizare pentru aliajele Ti-Mo-Zr-Ta, cu scopul de a aduce o noutate în sectorul implantologiei ortopedice. În cadrul acestui proiect, trei aliaje diferite, vor fi supuse unui proces de biofuncționalizare. Aceste aliaje vor fi caracterizate preliminar și după biofuncționalizare pentru a evalua și confirma îmbunătățirile realizate. Soluția optimă obținută din aceste investigații va fi utilizată pentru crearea unei plăci ortopedice ca model experimental. Acest demers nu doar subliniază angajamentul proiectului pentru inovație, dar și concentrarea sa pe aplicații practice în domeniul implantologiei ortopedice. Pentru realizarea modelului demonstrativ, sunt considerate următoarele etape: selecția materialului (Ti, Mo, Zr și Ta), elaborarea aliajelor, biofuncționalizarea prin metode biomimetice cu hidroxiapatită, caracterizarea aliajelor (înainte și după biofuncționalizare) și fabricarea unei plăci ortopedice cu aliajul optim, urmată de testarea și validarea acesteia.
| Coordinator | Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi (TUIASI) – Romania https://www.tuiasi.ro/Universitatea Tehnică Gheorghe Asachi din Iasi (TUIASI) – Romania |
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| Partner | Giurgiu Nord Technological And Industrial Park SA https://www.indparkgiurgiu.ro/Parcul Tehnologic si Industrial Giurgiu Nord SA |
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[EN] Work plan
Stage 1: Conception, technological design and preliminary characterization
Objective: Development and design of innovative Ti-Mo-Zr-Ta alloys using new modeling and manufacturing techniques.
Stage 2: Biofunctionalization, final characterization and validation
Objective: Improvement of the biofunctionality of the alloys, achievement of a comprehensive characterization for their use in orthopedic implants, validation of the performance of the alloys and prototypes developed.
[RO] Plan de lucru
Etapa 1: Concepție, design tehnologic și caracterizare preliminară
Obiectiv: Dezvoltarea și proiectarea aliajelor inovative de Ti-Mo-Zr-Ta utilizând tehnici noi de modelare și fabricație.
Etapa 2: Biofuncționalizare, caracterizare finală și validare
Obiectiv: Îmbunătățirea biofuncționalității aliajelor, realizarea unei caracterizări cuprinzătoare pentru utilizarea lor în implanturi ortopedice, validarea performanței aliajelor și prototipurilor dezvoltate.
Expected results
SCIENTIFIC REPORT – 2025
[ Romanian Version of Report 2025 ]
Stage 1
In accordance with Stage 1 of the project entitled “Concept, technology design, characterization and biofunctionalization of alloys for orthopedic implants”, the objectives of the BIO-SIMTIT project for the year 2025 have been fulfilled through the following deliverables:
Deliverable 1: Development of the experimental protocol for alloy testing
To achieve this deliverable, a complete experimental protocol was developed, covering the methodology for designing, synthesizing, processing, biofunctionalizing, and characterizing Ti–Mo–Zr–Ta alloys. The experimental compositions, criteria for selecting raw materials, powder-handling procedures, preliminary SLM processing parameters, and structural, mechanical, electrochemical, and surface analysis techniques were clearly defined. The protocol served as the main methodological document for all subsequent activities.
Deliverable 2: Design of an experimental model for the alloys, including the selection of ratios and processing parameters
For this deliverable, the experimental model was established for the three compositions Ti–15Mo–7Zr–xTa (x = 5, 10, 15 at.%). The alloying element ratios and optimal SLM parameter windows were defined. Specific phenomena related to rapid solidification, β-phase stabilization, the effect of Ta on SLM-generated microstructures, and risks associated with lack-of-fusion or keyhole porosity were analyzed. The experimental model included a systematic matrix of laser power, scanning speed, layer thickness, and hatch spacing, correlated with microstructural evolution and the expected mechanical performance.
Deliverable 3: Fabrication of alloys and development of the SLM technology for Ti–Mo–Zr–Ta alloys (Selective Laser Melting)
For this deliverable, the Ti–15Mo–7Zr–5Ta, Ti–15Mo–7Zr–10Ta, and Ti–15Mo–7Zr–15Ta samples were manufactured by SLM. The processing technology was developed and optimized, including the preparation of gas-atomized powders, establishment of the appropriate energy density (60–110 J/mm³), analysis of melt pool stability, and control of layer-by-layer melting phenomena. The results demonstrated the fabrication of dense samples (>99.5%) with fine, directionally solidified microstructures characteristic of β-Ti alloys produced via SLM.
Deliverable 4: Biofunctionalization of the alloys using the biomimetic method
Within this deliverable, the samples were biofunctionalized according to the Kokubo biomimetic method, using both NaOH activation treatment and thermal treatment at 600°C (Yamaguchi method), followed by immersion in SBF for 7 days.
Deliverable 5: Structural, mechanical, and surface characterization of the alloys
To achieve this deliverable, the following characterizations were conducted: SEM analysis for microstructure and surface morphology; EDX for chemical composition and Ca–P distribution; nanoindentation and microindentation for evaluating the elastic modulus and local hardness- confirming β-phase stabilization and the mechanical behavior required for implants; contact angle measurements demonstrating the increase in surface hydrophilicity following biomimetic treatments. The results indicated good microstructural homogeneity, optimal mechanical behavior, and a bioactive surface suitable for orthopedic applications.
Deliverable 6: Evaluation of the corrosion resistance of the samples
For this deliverable, electrochemical tests were performed in Ringer’s solution: open-circuit potential, potentiodynamic polarization, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The samples with the highest Ta content exhibited the lowest corrosion rate (1.49 × 10⁻⁴ mm/year) and the highest polarization resistance (up to 10⁷ Ω·cm²), confirming the formation of a stable and durable passive layer. The electrochemical behavior correlated well with the Ca–P biomimetic deposits observed in SEM and EDX analyses.
Deliverable 7: Dissemination through scientific publications and promotion of results
In order to fulfill this deliverable, the brief description of the BIO-SIMTIT project is published online at https://simtit.ro/bio-simtit//. The preliminary results obtained from the activities carried out were disseminated through 3 articles in specialized journals, the publication of 2 book chapters by internationally recognized publishing houses, a patent application, posters, presentations and a workshop were made within the project. The results were promoted in over 8 international invention salons, obtaining multiple gold medals, special prizes and diplomas of excellence (EUROINVENT, iCAN Toronto, Traian Vuia, PRO INVENT, UGAL Invent, FITT Muntenia etc.). These results certify both the importance and originality of the theme, as well as the high visibility of the project in the scientific and technological environment.
In relation to the project implementation plan, all activities and important milestones, which had deadlines prior to the presentation of this report, were successfully completed/accomplished by the project team.
Project Director
Lecturer Eng. Ph.D. Madalina Simona BALTATU
E-mail: madalina-simona.baltatu@academic.tuiasi.ro