Showing papers on "Titanium published in 2020"

Visualizing H2O molecules reacting at TiO2 active sites with transmission electron microscopy

Abstract: Imaging a reaction taking place at the molecular level could provide direct information for understanding the catalytic reaction mechanism. We used in situ environmental transmission electron microscopy and a nanocrystalline anatase titanium dioxide (001) surface with (1 × 4) reconstruction as a catalyst, which provided highly ordered four-coordinated titanium "active rows" to realize real-time monitoring of water molecules dissociating and reacting on the catalyst surface. The twin-protrusion configuration of adsorbed water was observed. During the water-gas shift reaction, dynamic changes in these structures were visualized on these active rows at the molecular level.

Surface Functionalization of Biomedical Ti-6Al-7Nb Alloy by Liquid Metal Dealloying

Abstract: Surface functionalization is an effective approach to change the surface properties of a material to achieve a specific goal such as improving the biocompatibility of the material. Here, the surface of the commercial biomedical Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy was functionalized through synthesizing of a porous surface layer by liquid metal dealloying (LMD). During LMD, the Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy is immersed in liquid magnesium (Mg) and both materials react with each other. Particularly, aluminum (Al) is selectively dissolved from the Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy into liquid Mg while titanium (Ti) and niobium (Nb) diffuse along the metal/liquid interface to form a porous structure. We demonstrate that the porous surface layer in the Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy can be successfully tailored by LMD. Furthermore, the concentration of harmful Al in this porous layer is reduced by about 48% (from 5.62 ± 0.11 wt.% to 2.95 ± 0.05 wt.%) after 30 min of dealloying at 1150 K. The properties of the porous layer (e.g., layer thickness) can be tuned by varying the dealloying conditions. In-vitro tests suggest improved bone formation on the functionalized porous surface of the Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy.

Efficient epoxidation over dinuclear sites in titanium silicalite-1.

Abstract: Titanium silicalite-1 (TS-1) is a zeolitic material with MFI framework structure, in which 1 to 2 per cent of the silicon atoms are substituted for titanium atoms. It is widely used in industry owing to its ability to catalytically epoxidize olefins with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), leaving only water as a byproduct1,2; around one million tonnes of propylene oxide are produced each year using this process3. The catalytic properties of TS-1 are generally attributed to the presence of isolated Ti(IV) sites within the zeolite framework1. However, despite almost 40 years of experimental and computational investigation4-10, the structure of these active Ti(IV) sites is unconfirmed, owing to the challenges of fully characterizing TS-1. Here, using a combination of spectroscopy and microscopy, we characterize in detail a series of highly active and selective TS-1 propylene epoxidation catalysts with well dispersed titanium atoms. We find that, on contact with H217O2, all samples exhibit a characteristic solid-state 17O nuclear magnetic resonance signature that is indicative of the formation of bridging peroxo species on dinuclear titanium sites. Further, density functional theory calculations indicate that cooperativity between two titanium atoms enables propylene epoxidation via a low-energy reaction pathway with a key oxygen-transfer transition state similar to that of olefin epoxidation by peracids. We therefore propose that dinuclear titanium sites, rather than isolated titanium atoms in the framework, explain the high efficiency of TS-1 in propylene epoxidation with H2O2. This revised view of the active-site structure may enable further optimization of TS-1 and the industrial epoxidation process.

Introduction to Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation—An Overview of the Process and Applications

Abstract: Plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO), also called micro-arc oxidation (MAO), is an innovative method in producing oxide-ceramic coatings on metals, such as aluminum, titanium, magnesium, zirconium, etc The process is characterized by discharges, which develop in a strong electric field, in a system consisting of the substrate, the oxide layer, a gas envelope, and the electrolyte The electric breakdown in this system establishes a plasma state, in which, under anodic polarization, the substrate material is locally converted to a compound consisting of the substrate material itself (including alloying elements) and oxygen in addition to the electrolyte components The review presents the process kinetics according to the existing models of the discharge phenomena, as well as the influence of the process parameters on the process, and thus, on the resulting coating properties, eg, morphology and composition

Inoculation Treatment of an Additively Manufactured 2024 Aluminium Alloy with Titanium Nanoparticles

Abstract: Considerable studies on metal selective laser melting (SLM) have proved the necessity to refine microstructure parts fabricated by SLM in order to eliminate property anisotropy, hot-tearing and to increase the SLM-processability. In the present work, Ti nanoparticles, at the first time, were discovered to be an extremely effective inoculant for an SLMed 2024 aluminium alloy. 0.7 wt.% addition of Ti nanoparticles was capable of substantially eliminating the hot-tearing cracks and columnar structure, and refining the grains in the SLMed 2024 alloy in a broad processing window. The substantial grain refinement in the Ti-inoculated 2024 alloy was attributed to the in-situ formation of Al3Ti nanoparticles with a L12 ordered structure, which formed a coherent interface with Al matrix and therefore significantly promoted the heterogeneous nucleation of the α-Al during solidification of melt pools in the SLM process. After a conventional T6 heat treatment, this SLMed alloy exhibited a superior balance of strength and ductility (tensile strength was up to 432 ± 20 MPa and elongation of 10 ± 0.8%), which was comparable to its wrought counterpart. This work can be considered as a breakthrough in research of fabricating high-strength aluminium alloys using SLM.

Laser powder bed fusion of titanium-tantalum alloys: Compositions and designs for biomedical applications.

Abstract: In this study, laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF), also known as selective laser melting (SLM), was used to fabricate samples of titanium-tantalum (TiTa) alloys with 0, 10, 30 and 50 wt% of tantalum using in-situ alloying. As-fabricated samples comprised of randomly-dispersed pure tantalum particles in a titanium-tantalum matrix. Porosity and unmelted tantalum particles of the samples were revealed using an optical microscope (OM). The microstructure of the alloys were determined by combination of field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), electron back scatter diffraction (EBSD) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The mechanical properties of the alloys were investigated with tensile and Vickers hardness tests. To ascertain the suitability of these alloys as biomaterials, Ti50Ta scaffolds with 60% porosity were characterized biologically. This study further shows that porous TiTa scaffolds fabricated using L-PBF are biocompatible with comparable biological results and manufacturability as Ti6Al4V and commercially pure titanium, based on the results obtained from cell culture with human osteosarcoma cell line SAOS-2.

Titanium particulate reinforced AZ31 magnesium matrix composites with improved ductility prepared using friction stir processing

Abstract: Conventional ceramic particulate reinforcements cause a major loss in ductility of magnesium matrix composites (MMCs). Metallic particles possessing higher melting point can offer a solution to this issue. Titanium (Ti) particles (0,7,14 and 21 vol%) were reinforced into magnesium alloy AZ31 using friction stir processing (FSP) performed by a conventional sturdy vertical milling machine. The microstructure and the tensile behavior of the fabricated composites were studied in detail. The micrographs revealed a uniform distribution of Ti particles all over the stir zone irrespective of the volume content of Ti. Ti particles did not decompose or react with the matrix and its alloying elements. Ti particles established a proper interface with the matrix AZ31. Ti particles survived the severe plastic strain without breakage. The grains in the matrix were refined extremely because of dynamic recrystallization and the pinning effect of Ti particles. A large number of dislocations are found in the composite. Ti particles improved the tensile strength of the composite and helped to retain appreciable ductility.

Effects of ZrO2 nanoparticle content on microstructure and wear behavior of titanium matrix composite

Abstract: The Ti-ZrO2 nanocomposites were fabricated by powder metallurgy route. The influence of ZrO2 additions on the microstructure and properties of the Ti-based composites were examined by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, microhardness and wear properties tests. The result showed that spread of ZrO2 nanoparticles in the Ti matrix. XRD refers to no new phase are formed between Ti and ZrO2 during the sintering process. In addition, a good microstructure is achieved. The densification behavior of the sintered nanocomposites is increased with increasing ZrO2 percent. The highest microhardness was measured as 570 HV for titanium matrix nanocomposites fabricated by using 10%wt of ZrO2 nanoparticles content. 290 HV was obtained for the titanium matrix. Results showed that the sliding wear rate increase with increasing the normal load and decrease via increasing the addition of ZrO2 nanoparticles. In addition, the friction coefficient decreases with increasing the normal load and via increasing the addition of ZrO2 nanoparticles. The microstructure refines due to ZrO2 addendums illustrated a considerable function in the wear behavior of the Ti matrix.

Insights in the Application of Stoichiometric and Non-Stoichiometric Titanium Oxides for the Design of Sensors for the Determination of Gases and VOCs (TiO2-x and TinO2n-1 vs. TiO2).

Abstract: In this review article, attention is paid towards the formation of various nanostructured stoichiometric titanium dioxide (TiO2), non-stoichiometric titanium oxide (TiO2−x) and Magneli phase (TinO2n−1)-based layers, which are suitable for the application in gas and volatile organic compound (VOC) sensors. Some aspects related to variation of sensitivity and selectivity of titanium oxide-based sensors are critically overviewed and discussed. The most promising titanium oxide-based hetero- and nano-structures are outlined. Recent research and many recently available reviews on TiO2-based sensors and some TiO2 synthesis methods are discussed. Some promising directions for the development of TiO2-based sensors, especially those that are capable to operate at relatively low temperatures, are outlined. The applicability of non-stoichiometric titanium oxides in the development of gas and VOC sensors is foreseen and transitions between various titanium oxide states are discussed. The presence of non-stoichiometric titanium oxide and Magneli phase (TinO2n−1)-based layers in ‘self-heating’ sensors is predicted, and the advantages and limitations of ‘self-heating’ gas and VOC sensors, based on TiO2 and TiO2−x/TiO2 heterostructures, are discussed.

Versatile bioactive and antibacterial coating system based on silica, gentamicin, and chitosan: Improving early stage performance of titanium implants

Abstract: The aim of this work is to develop and characterize a multifunctional and dual surface coating system for titanium orthopedic implants by applying two different cost-effective, scalable, and non-complex coating technologies (spray and electrophoretic deposition). The first deposit is formed by a sprayed hybrid sol-gel layer combined with bioactive glass particles (45S5, BG), and the outer part of the dual coating consists of a chitosan-gelatin/silica (Si) - antibiotic (gentamicin, Ge) composite layer applied by electrophoretic deposition. The application of sol-gel enclosed BG drops onto the surface was done to enhance the bioactivity of the double-layered surface coating system. After the BG is dissolved, thus generating a calcium‑silicon rich medium, the re-deposition of hydroxyl‑carbonate apatite occurs. Regarding the antibacterial inhibition properties, antibacterial activity to both strains used (S. aureus and E. coli) was obtained for the chitosan/gelatin/Si Ge nanoparticle coatings on titanium substrates, showing a large inhibition area around the samples. Both the bare Ti samples and the coatings with chitosan/gelatin matrix did not successfully inhibit bacterial growth. As expected, the presence of silica-based glasses and coatings based on amorphous silica enhanced cell viability. The deposition of BG was done with the aim of extending the bioactive effect of the system, considering the presence of a porous degradable organic layer deposited on top, which was shown to be partially degraded after 7 days. The sol gel sprayed BG layer combined with chitosan/gelatin biopolymers filled with Si Ge nanoparticles presents a suitable technology to generate bioactive and antibacterial surfaces to enhance Ti implant performance.

Application of Titanium and Its Alloys for Automobile Parts

Abstract: Some of the R & D activities by Nippon Steel on the application of titanium materials for automobile parts were introduced. Regarding exhaust pipes and mufflers, various material data needed to successfully handle commercially pure titanium was extensively accumulated while the manufacturing process by which products can show high performance inherent in titanium such as surface appearances was established. Regarding engine valves, both intake and exhaust valves having high wear resistance, high fatigue strength and high heat resistance were developed, which can be applied even in motorcycles with higher power engines. As a result of those activities, a lot of advantages of titanium usage including lightweight and high strength have become utilized in both many motorcycles and four-wheeled vehicles. In addition, to further enhance the use of titanium in automobiles, low-cost alloys such as Super-TIX series were newly developed, and it is strongly expected that more automobile parts will be made of titanium and its alloys in the very near future.

Antibacterial Property and Biocompatibility of Silver, Copper, and Zinc in Titanium Dioxide Layers Incorporated by One-Step Micro-Arc Oxidation: A Review

Abstract: Titanium (Ti) and its alloys are commonly used in medical devices. However, biomaterial-associated infections such as peri-implantitis and prosthetic joint infections are devastating and threatening complications for patients, dentists, and orthopedists and are easily developed on titanium surfaces. Therefore, this review focuses on the formation of biofilms on implant surfaces, which is the main cause of infections, and one-step micro-arc oxidation (MAO) as a coating technology that can be expected to prevent infections due to the implant. Many researchers have provided sufficient data to prove the efficacy of MAO for preventing the initial stages of biofilm formation on implant surfaces. Silver (Ag), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) are well used and are incorporated into the Ti surface by MAO. In this review, the antibacterial properties, cytotoxicity, and durability of these elements on the Ti surface incorporated by one-step MAO will be summarized. This review is aimed at enhancing the importance of the quantitative control of Ag, Cu, and Zn for their use in implant surfaces and the significance of the biodegradation behavior of these elements for the development of antibacterial properties.

Mechanistic basis of oxygen sensitivity in titanium

Abstract: One of the most potent examples of interstitial solute strengthening in metal alloys is the extreme sensitivity of titanium to small amounts of oxygen. Unfortunately, these small amounts of oxygen also lead to a markedly decreased ductility, which in turn drives the increased cost to purify titanium to avoid this oxygen poisoning effect. Here, we report a systematic study on the oxygen sensitivity of titanium that provides a clear mechanistic view of how oxygen impurities affect the mechanical properties of titanium. The increased slip planarity of Ti-O alloys is caused by an interstitial shuffling mechanism, which is sensitive to temperature, strain rate, and oxygen content and leads to the subsequent alteration of deformation twinning behavior. The insights from our experimental and computational work provide a rationale for the design of titanium alloys with increased tolerance to variations in interstitial content, with notable implications for more widespread use of titanium alloys.

Design and In Situ Synthesis of Titanium Carbide/Boron Nitride Nanocomposite: Investigation of Electrocatalytic Activity for the Sulfadiazine Sensor

Abstract: Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials are considered a rising star in diverse electrochemical technologies due to their special characteristics. We report here the design and synthesis of 2D titanium ...

Review on: TiO2 Thin Film as a Metal Oxide Gas Sensor

Abstract: Titanium dioxide is an important metal oxide semiconductor (MOSs) used in many electronic applications, the most famous of which are gas sensor applications. This review discusses the techniques used for preparing the TiO2 thin films and the effect of the crystalline phases in which this compound forms, on the gas sensing properties. There are three phases to crystallize titanium dioxides, brookite, anatase, and rutile phase. Amongst these varied phases of crystal, the greatest steady main phase is rutile. The phase of anatase and brookite are usually more stable than the rutile phase as the surface energy of them is less than that of the rutile. Therefore, the applications of sensing by anatase TiO2 and rutile TiO2 were fully studied. TiO2 characterizations were established on surface reactions using oxidizing or reducing gases, which; therefore, influences the conductivity of the film. Titanium dioxide gas sensors have healthier steadiness and sensitivity at high temperature compared with that of the other metal oxides. Surveys on titanium dioxide thin film applied in gas sensor devices used in a varied range of applications such as sensor devices, dye-sensitized solar cells, and catalysis. The gas sensor is a function of the crystal structure, particle size, morphology, and the method of synthesis. In this work, characteristic of the titanium dioxide films investigated using various techniques, as reported by many researchers. The aim of this study was to review previous studies through which the best properties can obtained to manufacture TiO2 gas sensor thin films with high sensitivity.

Increasing the oxygen-evolution reaction performance of nanotubular titanium oxynitride-supported Ir nanoparticles by a strong metal - support Interaction

Abstract: This study targets one of the grand challenges of electrochemical hydrogen production: a durable and cost-effective oxygen-evolution catalyst. We present a thin-film composite electrode with a uniq...