Abstract

Cobalt-chromium based alloys are widely used in dental applications due to their excellent mechanical properties, high corrosion resistance and good biocompatibility. Although they are generally fabricated by casting for dental restorations, recently selective laser melting (SLM) has become an attractive production method since it allows complex geometries. Recent studies revealed that Co-Cr alloys formed by SLM, provided better corrosion resistance as well.

In this study, tribo-corrosion behavior of a Co-Cr-Mo alloy produced by casting (Biosil-Degudent) was compared with the one (Co212-f ASTM F75) produced by SLM. The wear properties were investigated by tribo-corrosion tests in a Fusayama-Meyer artificial saliva solution using a “ball-on-disc” type tribometer. Polished surfaces were tested against zirconia balls at the same sliding speed, distance and load. Friction coefficient values were determined and the worn surfaces were evaluated using microscopes to compare the wear and tribo- corrosion resistance through wear tracks. SLM proved to be a promising manufacturing method for dental applications.