Kazuyuki Nakasuji

New high strength titanium alloy Ti10%Zr for spectacle frames

Abstract Spectacle frames are a good example of a new application for titanium, because titanium is light, strong and has good corrosion resistance. With the recent problem of Ni allergies, spectacle frame materials are required to have good biocompatibility. Titanium, which is non-toxic, has been recognized as a suitable material for spectacle frames. At the same time, thinner frames have become fashionable. So a new titanium alloy with both high strength and good cold workability has been developed. Ti 10%Zr alloy has been developed to meet these needs. This alloy showed high strength over 1000 MPa after cold working, good cold workability, and good biocompatibility. Frames of Ti 10%Zr alloy also show good polishing properties and high resistance to “Rim-Breakage”, which is a serious problem for titanium frames. Ti 10%Zr is being widely accepted as a material for spectacle frames because of its excellent properties.