Research Progress on Effect of LPBF Process Parameters on Porous Metallic Biomaterials

Abstract:

Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) has emerged as a powerful additive manufacturing technique for fabricating architected cellular metallic structures with precisely tailored properties, making it particularly attractive for biomedical applications such as bone implants, scaffolds, and load-bearing devices. By enabling lightmass designs, complex geometries, and tunable mechanical behavior, LPBF offers unique opportunities for matching implant performance with biological and mechanical requirements. However, the intricate coupling between LPBF process parameters and the resulting structural, microstructural, and mechanical properties remain a major challenge for achieving the consistency and reliability demanded in clinical practice. This review comprehensively analyzed the effects of key LPBF parameters, such as laser power, scanning speed, and layer thickness on dimensional accuracy, relative density, microstructure, and surface roughness of metallic cellular structures. Their subsequent influence on mechanical performance, such as strength, fatigue resistance, and functional behavior, was critically discussed with a focus on biomedical relevance. In addition, the role of lattice design variables, including topology, unit cell size, and build orientation, was examined, highlighting their importance in optimizing mechanical integrity and biocompatibility. Current challenges, such as surface defects, geometric deviations, and microstructural heterogeneity, were identified as critical barriers to broader biomedical adoption. Finally, future perspectives emphasize process optimization and the integration of advanced computational approaches, particularly machine learning, to accelerate the design and manufacturing of complex, patient-specific biomedical architectures.