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Published on: April 15, 2022
Advances on biodegradable zinc-silver-based alloys for biomedical applications
Ximei Xiao1,2, Enyang Liu3, Jinlong Shao1
1Department of Periodontology, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University & Shandong Key Laboratory of Oral Tissue Regeneration & Shandong Engineering Laboratory for Dental Materials and Oral Tissue Regeneration, Jinan, Shandong, China.
Zinc-silver alloys are promising biodegradable metals for medical use, offering good mechanical strength and biocompatibility. These absorbable metals avoid secondary surgery by degrading naturally within the body.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Materials Engineering
Background:
- Biodegradable metals offer alternatives to permanent implants, reducing the need for removal surgeries.
- Zinc-based alloys are emerging as a new class of absorbable metals with significant biomedical potential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the development and properties of zinc-silver (Zn-Ag) alloys.
- To assess Zn-Ag alloys as candidates for biomedical applications, particularly in dentistry.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on mechanical properties.
- Literature review focusing on degradability and biocompatibility.
- Literature review focusing on antibacterial properties and applications.
Main Results:
- Zn-Ag alloys exhibit superior mechanical strength compared to other biodegradable metals.
- These alloys demonstrate favorable biodegradability and biocompatibility profiles.
- Zn-Ag alloys possess significant antibacterial properties.
Conclusions:
- Zinc-silver alloys are highly promising for biomedical applications due to their balanced properties.
- Their biodegradability and biocompatibility make them suitable for temporary implants.
- Further research into Zn-Ag alloys could lead to advanced dental and medical devices.
