A comparison of the stress corrosion cracking susceptibility of commercially pure titanium grade 4 in Ringer's solution and in distilled water: A fracture mechanics approach

Abstract

From the results of laboratory investigations reported in the literature, it has been suggested that stress corrosion cracking (SCC) mechanisms may contribute to early failures in titanium alloys that have elevated oxygen concentrations. However, the susceptibility of titanium alloys to SCC in physiological environments remains unclear. In this study, a fracture mechanics approach was used to examine the SCC susceptibility of CP titanium grade 4 in Ringer's solution and distilled de-ionized (DI) water, at 37°C. The study duration was 26 weeks, simulating the non-union declaration of a plated fracture. Four wedge loads were used corresponding to 86-95% of the alloy's ligament yield load. The longest cracks were measured to be 0.18 mm and 0.10 mm in Ringer's solution and DI water, respectively. SEM analysis revealed no evidence of extensive fluting and quasi-cleavage fracture features which, in literature reports, were attributed to SCC. We thus postulate that the Ringer's solution accelerated the wedge-loaded crack growth without producing the critical stresses needed to change the fracture mechanism. Regression analysis of the crack length results led to a significant best-fit relationship between crack growth velocity (independent variable) and test electrolyte, initial wedge load, and time of immersion of specimen in electrolyte (dependent variables).

Thiazolium-Bearing Chitosan Polymer Mitigates Microbiologically and Acid-Induced Corrosion on Stainless Steel Dental Crowns and Pipeline Steel in Saliva and Pickle Liquor

“…30,36 Adhering bacterial biofilms on implant surfaces is also recognized to disrupt the passivity of implant alloys, thereby reducing their fracture resistance and leading to mechanical fatigue. 37,38 P. gingivalis contributes significantly to oral MIC. However, very little is known about how the changing effects of bacterial colonization on metallic dental materials would affect MIC control in the presence of certain antimicrobials.…”

“…gingivalis biofilms within the oral environment. , Volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), as the principal metabolic products of this bacterium, are reported to induce metal corrosion and mechanical stress, and a combination of these factors. Some VSCs, hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and dimethyl sulfide, contribute to peri -implantitis. , Adhering bacterial biofilms on implant surfaces is also recognized to disrupt the passivity of implant alloys, thereby reducing their fracture resistance and leading to mechanical fatigue. , P. gingivalis contributes significantly to oral MIC.…”