Evaluation of mechanical, microstructural, tribological characteristics and cytocompatibility in AZ31 hybrid bio-composite reinforced with TiO2-HAp

A novel hybrid bio-composite, based on Mg-alloy (AZ31) and reinforced with Titanium dioxide (TiO2) & Hydroxyapatite (HAp) particles, has been successfully created using the powder metallurgy technique. The efficacy of this approach in synthesizing hybrid composites is remarkable. Insightful microstructural analysis of the bio-composite specimens unveiled a uniform dispersion of reinforcement particles across the matrix. By conducting rigorous compressive and microhardness assessments, the influence of integrating TiO2-HAp into AZ31 on its mechanical attributes was thoroughly explored. Notably, the peak ultimate compressive strength reached an impressive 430 MPa, while the microhardness peaked at 58 HV. Moreover, a detailed investigation into the tribological performance of the hybrid composite was also undertaken. Simultaneously, the assessment of cell viability through the MTT assay yielded valuable insights. The fundamental mechanisms reinforcing the hybrid bio-composite, attributed to the incorporation of TiO2-HAp, are primarily linked to the elevation of microhardness, compressive strength, and a concurrent reduction in wear loss. Notably, a noteworthy enhancement in cytocompatibility was observed, with cell viability ranging from 78 to 83 percent for hybrid composites following a nine-day incubation period.