Effect of Sn addition on the mechanical properties and bio-corrosion behavior of cytocompatible Mg–4Zn based alloys

Jiang Weiyan a, Wang Jingfeng a, Zhao Weikang b, Liu Qingshan a, Jiang Dianming b, Guo Shengfeng c

• a National Engineering Research Center for Magnesium Alloys, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China

• b Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China

• c Faculty of Materials and Energy, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China

Abstract

The mechanical properties and bio-corrosion behaviors of as-extruded Mg–4Zn alloys after Sn addition were investigated, systematically. A small amount of Sn addition to Mg–4Zn alloy slightly improved the mechanical properties for solid solution strengthening, and significantly controlled the bio-corrosion rates. Sn participating in the outer layer film formation as SnO/SnO2 resisted the bio-corrosion proceeding. Especially, Mg–4Zn–1.5Sn alloy, with a weight loss rate of 0.45 mm/y and hydrogen evolution rate of 0.099 mL/cm2/day, showed cytotoxicity grade of 0 to MC3T3-E1 cells. The perfect alliance of cytocompatibility, suitable mechanical properties and low bio-corrosion rate demonstrates that this Mg–4Zn–1.5Sn alloy is a promising biodegradable magnesium alloy for orthopedic implants.

Keywords

Magnesium alloy; Polarization; Immersion; Bio-corrosion behavior; Cytocompatibility

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S221395671930009X