Attaining High Functional Performance in Biodegradable Mg-Alloys: An Overview of Challenges and Prospects for the...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Materials Engineering
• Metallurgy

Background:

• Biodegradable magnesium (Mg) alloys are increasingly researched for temporary medical implants.
• Hundreds of Mg-based alloys exist, with the Mg-Zn-Ca system serving as a key example.
• Significant growth in research activities over recent decades has yielded numerous findings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of current achievements in biodegradable Mg alloys.
• To identify existing knowledge gaps in the field.
• To focus on the Mg-Zn-Ca system as a representative example.

Main Methods:

• Review of state-of-the-art processing techniques for Mg alloys.
• Summarization of functional properties achieved through various processing routes.
• Analysis of mechanical properties (strength, ductility, fatigue resistance).
• Evaluation of biocompatibility and bio-corrosion resistance.

Main Results:

• Diverse processing routes yield varied mechanical and degradation profiles.
• Understanding of mechano-chemical interactions and corrosion properties is crucial.
• Stress corrosion cracking and corrosion fatigue are significant failure modes.
• Key challenges and polemic issues in laboratory research are identified.

Conclusions:

• Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps in biodegradable Mg alloys.
• Optimizing processing is key to tailoring properties for specific implant applications.
• Addressing challenges in corrosion and mechanical integrity is vital for clinical translation.