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Tantalum is a non-ferromagnetic metal with good radiographic opacity and bio-compatibility. It is therefore suitable for orthopedic X-ray markers applied in medical devices made from surgical quality plastic or titanium alloy. The markers offer high sphericity and adequate mechanical properties to withstand the impact of insertion. Orthopedic marker balls or beads, also known as X-ray markers, are used to identify the site of fractures, tumors and dislocations in bones and joints. The X-ray markers are placed during surgery to guide the surgeon and allow subsequent verification that the implant has been properly placed. The X-ray markers must be very precisely located and positioned to avoid any potential interference with the patient’s surrounding tissues or other implants.

During the mechanochemical synthesis process, various phases of tantalum hydrides were obtained “in situ” by high energy ball milling. Starting powders of a-Bi2O3 and (Bi2O3)80(Ta)20 were milled in an oxygen-free argon-filled glove box environment for varying times and the resulting powders were analyzed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectrometry and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to determine the structural evolution.

Tantalum has a tendency to gall, similar to pure copper, so generous lubrication is required when using high speed tooling. Moreover, it can be fusion or resistance welded but only when the surface is clean. It is not advisable to use a torch on Tantalum as it may burn or spark if it comes into contact with other metals.