Study of the microstructure and mechanical properties of beta tricalcium phosphate-based composites with alumina addition produced by powder metallurgy

Abstract The use of alumina as a reinforcement in metallic and ceramic matrix is well-known. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of alumina addition according to its amount on the microstructural and mechanical behavior of tricalcium phosphate ceramic (TCP), more specifically the β-TCP. Although β-TCP has excellent bioactive and biocompatible properties, it presents low fracture resistance and load bearing capacity, which limits its use in the monolithic form. The route used for the β-TCP/alumina composite production was powder metallurgy. The powders were milled in a hi...