Structure, luminescence, mechanical and in vitro behavior of zirconia toughened alumina due to terbium substitutions

Abstract

The significance of Tb³⁺ inclusions at the zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA) structure was explored. The influence of Tb³⁺ content at the crystal structures of ZrO₂ and Al₂O₃ and the resultant optical, mechanical, magnetic and cytotoxicity properties were deliberated. The critical role of Tb³⁺ to attain a structurally stable ZTA until 1500 °C is ensured. Depending on the Tb³⁺ content, either tetragonal zirconia (t-ZrO₂) or cubic zirconia (c-ZrO₂) structures were stabilized while the propensity of Tb³⁺ reaction with Al₂O₃ to yield TbAlO₃ is transpired only after exceeding the occupancy limit in ZrO₂. The green emission and paramagnetic features are imparted by the Tb³⁺ inclusions at the ZTA structure. Dense and pore free microstructures with a direct impact on the improved mechanical features of ZTA is empowered by the presence of Tb³⁺. Further, the results from MTT assay and live/dead cell staining ensured the negligence of Tb³⁺ contained ZTA systems to induce toxicity.

Keywords: Mechanical; Optical; Structure; Terbium; Zirconia toughened alumina.