Co‐Optimization of Mechanical Performance and Osseointegration of Titanium‐Based Composites via a Novel Microwave‐Driven Boronization Strategy

Abstract

The use of Ti6Al4V alloy in dental implantation is constrained by its high elastic modulus and biological inertness, which lead to delayed osseointegration and a high failure risk. Additionally, its chemical incompatibility with hydroxyapatite (HA) impedes the development of stable bioactive composites. In this study, Ti6Al4V/HA composites with TiB 2 (0 wt%, 0.5 wt%, 1 wt%, 2 wt%, 3 wt% and 5 wt%) were fabricated via microwave sintering at 1050°C for 30 min and denoted C0, C0.5, C1, C2, C3 and C5. Simulations and interfacial analyses verified TiB 2 ‐driven energy concentration, controlled in situ TiB formation, and reduced heterogeneity at 1 wt% TiB 2 . The composite C1 exhibited the best overall performance, with improved density (4.04 g cm −3 ), high compressive strength (740.4 MPa), bone‐like compressive modulus (12.21 GPa), and great microhardness (366 HV). TiB 2 ‐containing composites (C0.5–C5) promoted osteoblast adhesion and proliferation. Among them, C1 exhibited significantly upregulated OCN, Runx‐2, and Collagen‐1 expression levels, leading to a 1.5–2.2‐fold increase in alkaline phosphatase activity. In vivo studies confirmed that this composite had enhanced new bone formation, trabecular continuity, and bone–implant integration during remodeling. These results demonstrated that controlled TiB 2 incorporation co‐enhanced mechanical strength and osteoinductive potential, making boronized Ti6Al4V/HA composites promising candidates for advanced oral implant applications.