2-component-MIM parts with a functional gradient in porosity

2-component-MIM is a novel and innovative PM process. It offers the possibility to manufacture nearnet-shaped PM parts combining different materials or materials properties. In the present study, the potential of the method was demonstrated on parts characterised by a functional gradient in porosity. Titanium parts with well defined porosities and pore sizes in the range of 355-500 μm were realised by use of suitable space holder materials. An important aim of this study was the development of suitable feedstocks, taking the large difference in particle sizes of metal powder and space holder into account. The feedstock rheology was characterised by capillary rheometry to investigate the influence of space holder on flowing behaviour. After removal of binder and space holder, the parts were sintered. A promising application of this method is the production of biomedical implants with a gradient in porosity.