The microstructure, degradation behavior and cytotoxicity effect of Mg–Sn–Zn alloys in vitro tests

Abstract

In the present study, Mg5Sn–xZn (x = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 wt%) alloys in superior biocorrosion properties were produced successfully. A novel mixing technique which prevents contact of magnesium with oxygen has been applied in order to produce Mg–Sn–Zn alloys by hot pressing. According to the obtained results, it was observed that a homogeneous microstructure could be obtained, and the formed secondary phases were uniformly distributed at the grain boundaries. At the same time, it was determined that addition of Zn had a grain refiner effect on microstructure. Therefore, corrosion resistance increased with increasing Zn ratios. Apatite structures were formed on specimen surfaces during degradation as protective layers. The highest corrosion resistance was obtained from TZ54 alloy, in which the apatite structures formed intensively. The addition of Zn to the alloys had no toxic effects on human neuron cells in terms of biocompatibility, but was effective for cell growth.