Properties and fabrication of nanostructured 2Cr–Al2O3 composite for prosthetic bearing replacements

Cr2O3 and Al powder were used as raw powders, and were milled by the high energy ball milling method. The nanostructured 2Cr–Al2O3 composite from the milled powder was both synthesized and densificated within a short time, by the pulsed current activated sintering (PCAS) apparatus. The relative density of the sintered 2Cr–Al2O3 composite was 99%. The hardness and the fracture toughness of the specimen were 1630 kg/mm2, and 9.3 MPa·m1/2, respectively. The weight loss of the composite was measured by a pin-on-disk type apparatus, without a lubricant. Lastly, the 2Cr–Al2O3 composite has a very good cell viability.