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Amazemet Atomisation Technique, Ti60-Zr15-Cu17-S8

Researchers from various institutions, including the University of Duisburg-Essen, Saarland University, City University of Hong Kong, and IMDEA Materials Institute, recently published a study in Progress in Additive Manufacturing on the potential of Ti60-Zr15-Cu17-S8 alloy for medical applications. The study focuses on the alloy’s application in Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB) Additive Manufacturing and its behavior during processing.

Key Findings in Titanium-Based BMG Processing

The research team employed the rePowder ultrasonic atomiser from Amazemet Sp Zoo, based in Warsaw, Poland, to produce spherical and flowable powders with a crystalline microstructure, suitable for use in PBF-LB Additive Manufacturing. The atomisation process created powders with properties ideal for the production of complex medical components using advanced 3D printing technologies.

Through Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analyses, the researchers identified amorphous microstructures on the laser-treated surfaces. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis helped to reveal the relationship between the crystalline phase formation and melt pool dynamics. This understanding enabled the production of dense bulk samples with tailored properties for specific applications.

Future Research and Process Optimisation

The researchers believe their findings promote further research into the processability of Ti-based sulfur-containing bulk metallic glasses (BMG) in commercial metal PBF-LB Additive Manufacturing machines. They are particularly focused on optimizing powder material purity, in-situ crack stability, and maintaining the amorphous nature of the material.

Further studies will look into the effects of pre-heating temperatures and optimized scan strategies, as well as the laser-material interaction. Both experimental and computational approaches will be used to better understand these interactions. The team also sees the potential for adapting this process for other material classes with similar glass-forming abilities, potentially expanding the use of this technique across different applications.