Tougher titanium

Titanium alloys are an important material in products like biomedical implants, golf clubs and aircraft because the crystalline materials within these alloys impart high strength, low density, corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. But titanium alloys will deform over time, even under relatively low stresses, at room temperature.

Now, new findings by University of Maryland engineers suggest that, by altering the chemistry or microstructure of these alloys, it will be possible to develop titanium components that are more resistant to deformation. Improving the alloys' performance could expand its industrial and commercial uses.

The gradual deforming of titanium alloys at normal temperatures is called "room-temperature creep," and it can reduce titanium alloy performance. Consider a large airplane with titanium alloy landing gear. After thousands of hours supporting the weight of the aircraft, the landing gear may begin to deform, albeit at very low creep rates, increasing maintenance costs and reducing safety.