During the hot pressing of pure titanium and different carbon steels in a temperature range of = 950–1050 , a compound layer up to dL≈10 thick is formed at the titanium–steel interface. With a higher carbon content of the used steel, the layer thickness increases. The carbon concentration within the layer is in the range of stoichiometry for TiC. Apart from TiC, no other phases can be detected by X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements inside the formed layer. The calculation of the activation energy for the TiC layer formation is Q = 126.5–136.7 mol−1 and is independent of the carbon content of the steel. The resulting microstructure has a grain size gradient, wherein the mechanical properties, such as hardness and Young‘s modulus, are almost constant. Statistical analysis using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) indicates that the carbon content of the steel has the most significant influence on layer thickness, followed by annealing temperature and annealing time. By selecting the appropriate carbon steel and the subsequent removal of the steel, it is possible to produce targeted TiC layers on titanium substrates, which holds enormous potential for this material in wear-intensive applications.
Polyetheretherketone is a promising material for implants due to its good mechanical properties and excellent biocompatibility. Its accessibility to a wide range of applications is facilitated by the ability to process it with an easy-to-use manufacturing process such as fused filament fabrication. The elimination of disadvantages associated with the manufacturing process, such as a poor surface quality, is a main challenge to deal with. As part of the mass finishing process, centrifugal disc finishing has demonstrated good results in surface optimization, making it a promising candidate for the post-processing of additively manufactured parts. The objective of this study is to identify the key parameters of the centrifugal disc finishing process on the waviness of additively manufactured PEEK specimens, which has not been investigated previously. The waviness of the specimen was investigated by means of confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), while weight loss was additionally tracked. Six parameters were investigated: type, amount and speed of media, use of compound, amount of water and time. Type of media, time and speed were found to significantly influence waviness reduction and weight loss. Surface electron microscopy images demonstrated the additional effects of deburring and corner rounding. Results on previous studies with specimens made of metal showed similar results. Further investigation is required to optimize waviness reduction and polish parts in a second post-processing step.
Aim: To develop a 3D‐printed model enabling treatment simulation of trauma‐related endodontic and restorative procedures like revitalization or placement of an apical plug on teeth with incomplete root formation. Methodology: To generate a realistic training model suitable for trauma‐related simulations, CT‐Data sets were segmented, combined, adjusted and optimized using computer‐aided design features. Specific focus was on optimally reflecting characteristics of immature teeth like open apical foramina and thin root walls. For reflection of the revitalization process, a set‐up including a tube filled with red liquid under pressure was developed to be perforated during the procedure by the trainee, simulating bleeding from the apical papilla into the root canal system. Design was based on a combination of cost‐effective simple parts combined with 3D‐printed components to achieve maximal accessibility, exchangeability and re‐usability. Model assembly and preparation were described in step‐by‐step instructions. Results: As a result of the developmental process, the presented model qualifies for the training of the endodontic management of complications on immature teeth after dental trauma. Step‐by‐step descriptions aligned with the clinical procedures are performable for a revitalization procedure, for pulpotomy followed by fragment re‐attachment and splint application and for placement of an apical plug using hydraulic calcium silicate cements. Conclusions: The model successfully achieved its intended objectives, so that it may be used in the future in various dental trauma treatment simulations for undergraduate and postgraduate education on the endodontic management of trauma‐related therapies in immature teeth. Its common manufacturing process, affordability and re‐usability support accessibility and sustainability.
Polyetheretherketone is a promising material for implants due to its good mechanical properties and excellent biocompatibility. Its accessibility to a wide range of applications is facilitated by the ability to process it with an easy-to-use manufacturing process such as Fused Filament Fabrication. The elimination of disadvantages associated with the manufacturing process, such as a poor surface quality, is a main challenge to deal with. As part of the mass finishing process, centrifugal disc finishing has demonstrated good results in surface optimization, making it a promising candidate for post-processing of additively manufactured parts. The objective of this study is to identify the key parameters of the centrifugal disc finishing process on the waviness of additively manufactured PEEK specimen, which has not been investigated yet. Waviness of the specimen was investigated by means of confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), while weight loss was additionally tracked. Six parameters were investigated: type, amount and speed of media, use of compound, amount of water and time. Type of media, time and speed were found to significantly influence waviness reduction and weight loss. Surface electron microscopy images demonstrated the additional effects of deburring and corner rounding. Results on previous studies with specimens made of metal showed similar results. Further investigation is required to optimise waviness reduction and polish parts in a second post-processing step.