Effects of alloying elements on performance of biodegradable magnesium alloy

Abstract

Magnesium (Mg), a trace element in the human body, has excellent properties for use as a biodegradable medical implant. Metallic materials such as stainless steel, Co-based alloys, Ti alloys etc. used in biomedical implants. The use of corrodible alloying metals for medical applications has recently been increased. Magnesium as a biodegradable alloy has stupendous properties like elastic modulus, mechanical properties, good biocompatibility, very close to bone properties and helps in bone remodelling or ossification. The review study focuses on the degradation behavior of Mg-based alloys, influenced by alloying elements to increase resistance to corrosion, mechanical properties and bioactivity. This study reveals that the degradation rate can be controlled by lowering the corrosion rate through proper alloying by elements such as Zr, Sr, Mn, Ca, Zn, Al and rare earth elements and enhanced biocompatibility. The analysis has been discussed for cardiovascular, orthopaedic, tissue engineering, and therapeutic implant applications focused on Mg-based alloys.