Development of rare-earth oxide reinforced magnesium nanocomposites targeting biomedical applications

Abstract

This study deals with magnesium-based materials, considered as potential biodegradable implants that degrade within the body after curing the wound and restoring the bone tissue. Magnesium based materials need favorable mechanical and corrosion properties to be implanted inside the human body. Magnesium despite having good mechanical properties if immersed in a corrosive environment would tend to lose its mechanical integrity. The role of cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles and zinc (Zn) an alloying element in improving the mechanical and corrosive properties of the base material will be studied to find its scope in orthopedic applications. The aim of the current work is to synthesize Mg/CeO2 and Mg-Zn/CeO2 nanocomposites by powder metallurgy method. Significant grain refinement and increase in hardness is noticed for both the nanocomposites due to the fair distribution of cerium nanoparticles. The room temperature compressive yield strength and ultimate compressive strength for Mg/CeO2 and Mg-Zn/CeO2 nanocomposites were higher than pure Mg. The addition of 1.0 vol% of CeO2 to pure Mg and Mg-0.5 vol% of Zn system showed controlled degradation rate in Hank’s balanced salt solution (HBSS) for 1, 2, 3, 4 and 7 days respectively.