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Interface-Enhanced Mg/PLA Composite with Superior Mechanical, Biodegradable and Biocompatible Properties for
Wenchen Teng1, Zhuoyi Wang1,2, Ziyue Xu1,2
1Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Metallic Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China.
Journal of Functional Biomaterials
|May 26, 2026
Summary
This study enhances magnesium (Mg) and polylactic acid (PLA) composites for orthopedic implants. A dual surface treatment improves mechanical strength and degradation stability, showing potential for bone fixation applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Materials Engineering
- Orthopedic Research
Background:
- Polylactic acid (PLA) has limited strength for orthopedic implants.
- Magnesium (Mg) addition offers bioactivity but suffers from weak interfacial adhesion with PLA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enhance the interfacial adhesion between Mg and PLA in composites.
- To improve the mechanical properties and degradation stability of Mg/PLA composites for orthopedic applications.
Main Methods:
- A dual interfacial enhancement approach combining surface fluorination and perforation was developed.
- Hot pressing allowed molten PLA to infiltrate pores, creating mechanical interlocking.
- In vitro degradation tests and cell viability assays were performed.
Main Results:
- The dual treatment increased bending strength by 49% and bending strain from 15% to 25%.
- Mechanical interlocking improved load transfer and altered degradation behavior.
- Degradation tests showed suppressed H2-induced delamination and stabilized pH and Mg2+ release.
- Bending strength retention was 86% after six weeks of degradation.
- MC3T3-E1 cell viability exceeded 90% in 100% extract, indicating excellent biocompatibility.
Conclusions:
- The dual interfacial enhancement strategy significantly improves Mg/PLA composite properties.
- The reinforced composite demonstrates superior mechanical strength, degradation stability, and biocompatibility.
- This Mg/PLA composite shows high potential for load-bearing orthopedic fixation devices.
