Engineering Tantalum‐Doped Zirconia and Its Effective Use in Biomedical Applications
R. Aishwariya, C. V. Neehara, R. Jagannadhan, Vijayalakshmi UthirapathyTantalum (Ta)‐doped zirconia (ZrO 2 ) composites were fabricated and analyzed for the suitability of biomedical applications, particularly in medical implants. Tantalum was selected due to its excellent biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and ability to form a stable oxide layer, which promotes superior surface properties and osseointegration. The composites were prepared using a coprecipitation method and then sintered at higher temperatures for three different Ta concentrations. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) characterization showed the presence of mixed crystalline phases in the doped samples. Structural and morphological characterization was done using IR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). XPS showed the elements and oxidation state present in tantalum‐doped zirconia lattice structure. The biocompatibility of the optimized sample was carried out using the MG‐63 cell line and the results showed high cell viability even at increased concentrations. Micro‐CT analysis shows that the Ta‐doped zirconia specimen was successfully fabricated with a dense and uniform internal structure containing only minimal porosity.