OBJECTIVETo compare the microstructure and mechanical properties of pure titanium specimens fabricated using laser melted rapidly solidified forming (LMRSF) and casting, and to provide scientific evidence for the new method of laser rapid forming in prosthodontic field.

METHODSSix pure titanium specimens were fabricated from pure titanium powder using LMRSF technology, and six pure titanium casting specimens were used as the controls. The tensile strength was measured and the microstructures and natural fracture surface of the pure titanium specimens made in two different ways were observed.

RESULTSCompared to that in the casting specimen, the microstructure of the LMRSF titanium specimens was denser and acicular structure distributed more uniformly. The tensile strength and the microhardness of the pure titanium specimens were (510.0 +/- 21.2) MPa and (201.4 +/- 14.5) MPa respectively, which were much higher than those of the dental pure titanium castings [(425.0 +/- 35.1) MPa and (186.5 +/- 9.5) MPa] (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONSThe microstructure and mechanical properties of the pure titanium specimens fabricated using LMRSF are better than that of the pure titanium castings. Therefore, the LMRSF will provide titanium framework with better quality for removable dental restoration.