Effect of sintering atmosphere on structure and properties of vitalium type sintered materials

The aim of the present research was to determine the effect of atmosphere o f preliminary annealing and subsequent sintering on a structure and propert ies of sintered alloys produced of Co-Cr-Mo powders, which are applied for production of endo-prostheses. Sintering was performed in vacuum, under the hydrogen or argon atmospheres. Measurements of density, hardness and bendi ng strength of sintered alloys were performed as well as X-ray phase analys is and structure observations by means of optical and scanning microscopy. Line analysis using CAMECA X-ray microanalyser was conducted additionally t o determine chromium and molybdenum distribution within the structure of si ntered materials.