Realization of a Titanium Spinal Implant with a Gradient in Porosity by 2‐Component‐Metal Injection Moulding

Abstract 2‐Component‐Metal Injection Moulding (2‐C‐MIM) is a technique derived from plastics industry which has been adapted to metal powders. In the present work, the production of titanium implants with a gradient in porosity was demonstrated by using this technology, starting from titanium feedstocks with and without space holder particles (NaCl, 350–500 µm). Binder systems specially tailored for the application were developed. Compared to established production routes, the net‐shape fabrication of titanium implants by 2‐C‐MIM promises a significant reduction of cost if aiming at large scale production. The feasibility study was accompanied by a detailed characterisation of each production step of 2‐C‐MIM process including influence of MIM processing on mechanical properties.