Microstructure, mechanical and bio-corrosion properties of Mn-doped Mg-Zn-Ca bulk metallic glass composites

The effects of Mn substitution for Mg on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion behavior of Mg69-xZn27Ca4Mnx (x=0, 0.5 and 1at.%) alloys were investigated using X-ray diffraction, compressive tests, electrochemical treatments, and immersion tests, respectively. Microstructural observations showed that the Mg69Zn27Ca4 alloy was mainly amorphous. The addition of Mn decreases the glass-forming ability, which results in a decreased strength from 545 MPa to 364 MPa. However, this strength is still suitable for implant application. Polarization and immersion tests in the simulated body fluid at 37 °C revealed that the Mn-doped Mg-Zn-Ca alloys have significantly higher corrosion resistance than traditional ZK60 and pure Mg alloys. Cytotoxicity test showed that cell viabilities of osteoblasts cultured with Mn-doped Mg-Zn-Ca alloys extracts were higher than that of pure Mg. Mg68.5Zn27Ca4Mn0.5 exhibits the highest bio-corrosion resistance, biocompatibility and has desirable mechanical properties, which could suggest to be used as biomedical materials in the future.