Mechanical and MicroCT-based morphological characterization of 3D printed TI6AL4V lattice structures

Customised open porous lattice structure are now a preferred and versatile choice in order to make biomorphic bone scaffolds. Using Selective Laser Melting (SLM), two types of Ti6Al4V periodic lattice structures, classic BCC topology and node reinforced BCC were manufactured. The structures have a high interconnectivity macroscopic porosity that varies between 55 % and 85 % for two pore size, 1mm and 2mm. A micro-CT based morphological comparison between the as produced and CAD was done in order to highlight the causes of those differences to be able to make more accurate design reproduction in the future. The mechanical properties and the surface roughness were assessed as they play an important role in the successful implant placement. To reduce or avoid the undesired stress shielding effect post orthopaedic surgery, it is shown that it is possible to tailor the structure geometry in order to obtain similar Young's Modulus values compared to natural human bone. Due to a high interconnected porosity and a stiffness comparable to human bone, this type of bone scaffold lattice structure is promising to make load bearing bone implants.