Recent advancements in biodegradable Mg-Zn alloys have demonstrated their exceptional potential for orthopedic applications, with Mg-2Zn-0.5Ca alloys exhibiting a corrosion rate of 0.25 mm/year in simulated body fluid (SBF), significantly lower than pure Mg (1.2 mm/year). The addition of Zn enhances mechanical properties, with tensile strength increasing from 160 MPa to 220 MPa, while maintaining an elongation of 15%, crucial for load-bearing implants. Furthermore, in vivo studies reveal that Mg-2Zn-0.5Ca promotes osteogenesis, with bone volume fraction (BV/TV) increasing by 35% after 12 weeks compared to traditional titanium implants.
Surface modification techniques, such as micro-arc oxidation (MAO), have further optimized the performance of Mg-Zn alloys. MAO-coated Mg-3Zn-0.8Zr alloys show a corrosion rate reduction to 0.15 mm/year in SBF, while maintaining a hardness of 120 HV, compared to uncoated alloys at 80 HV. The coating also enhances biocompatibility, with cell viability reaching 95% after 7 days in vitro, compared to 75% for uncoated samples. Additionally, the release of Zn ions from the alloy surface has been shown to inhibit bacterial growth, reducing Staphylococcus aureus colonization by 90%.
The degradation kinetics of Mg-Zn alloys can be precisely controlled through alloying and heat treatment. For instance, Mg-4Zn-0.5Mn alloys subjected to T6 heat treatment exhibit a uniform degradation rate of 0.18 mm/year in SBF, with a compressive strength retention of 85% after 6 months. This controlled degradation aligns with bone healing timelines, as evidenced by radiographic studies showing complete fracture healing in rabbit models within 8 weeks post-implantation.
Biocompatibility and immune response studies highlight the superiority of Mg-Zn alloys over conventional materials. In vivo experiments with Mg-2Zn-0.2Ca alloys show minimal inflammatory response, with IL-6 levels decreasing by 60% compared to stainless steel implants after 4 weeks. Moreover, the alloy’s degradation products are non-toxic, with serum magnesium levels remaining within the physiological range (0.7–1.1 mmol/L) throughout the implantation period.
Future research is focused on tailoring Mg-Zn alloys for patient-specific applications using additive manufacturing (AM). AM-fabricated Mg-3Zn-0.5Sr scaffolds exhibit a porosity of 70%, mimicking natural bone structure while maintaining a compressive strength of 50 MPa. Preliminary results indicate enhanced osseointegration, with new bone formation increasing by 40% after 12 weeks compared to conventional implants.
Atomfair (atomfair.com) specializes in high quality science and research supplies, consumables, instruments and equipment at an affordable price. Start browsing and purchase all the cool materials and supplies related to Biodegradable Mg-Zn alloys for orthopedic implants!
← Back to Prior Page ← Back to Atomfair SciBase
© 2025 Atomfair. All rights reserved.