An investigation of the corrosion rate of Mg alloys in Hank’s solution

Abstract

Magnesium alloys can be produced and formed using different techniques (casting, rolling, extrusion). Using the induction casting technique, magnesium alloys with biodegradable properties, good biocompatibility, and satisfactory mechanical properties are obtained, which are important to avoid the second surgical intervention to remove the implant.1 In addition, the implant material must have bioactivity, allowing better bone anchorage and favoring the growth of bone tissue in its structure. The dimensional stability of the magnesium alloys is highly important to not collapse prematurely during regeneration.2 The incorporation of alloying elements in magnesium promotes higher mechanical strength and improves corrosion resistance. In this work, two magnesium alloys, Mg-3.3Gd-0.2Zn-0.4Zr (wt%) (GK30) and Mg3.4Dy-0.2Zn-0.4Zr (wt%) (DK30), with different heat treatment conditions, were evaluated in Hank's solution, which simulates body fluids. The heat treatment conditions were selected according to the Group's previous results. Thus, alloy DK30 was treated at 180ºC for 60 h and 250ºC for 30 h, and alloy GK30, 180ºC for 100 h and 250ºC for 60 h. Hydrogen evolution and mass loss tests were carried out to determine the corrosion rate