Eri MIURA

Functionally graded materials (FGMs) are a new class of materials whose compositions change from one surface to another surface. FGMs can be fabricated under a centrifugal force. Fabrication methods of FGMs under the centrifugal force are classified into three categories, namely centrifugal method (application of centrifugal casting), centrifugal slurry method and centrifugal pressurization method (simple pressurization by the centrifugal force). We are developing a centrifugal slurry-pouring method and centrifugal mixed-powder method, which are classified into the latter two categories, and they are combination of centrifugal method and powder metallurgy. In this article, some recent results from the centrifugal slurry-pouring method and centrifugal mixed-powder method will be described.

The aim of the present research was to develop a new dental titanium alloy with good castability and biocompatibility. Since Zr is known to have good biocompatibility and form a continuous solid solution with Ti, we selected Zr as an additive element. Also, Sn is expected to have the stabilizing effect of the alpha-phase. Based on this information, we prepared ternary Ti-Zr-Sn alloys with different compositions. Castability, porosity, tensile strength, and crystal structure of the experimental Ti-Zr-Sn alloys were examined. The results showed that the Ti-Zr-Sn alloys possess excellent casta...