Production and Characterization of Biodegradable Zn-Mn-Mg Alloy

In this study, biodegradable Zn-Mn-Mg alloy specimens were fabricated for temporary implant applications. Zn alloy specimens were produced by powder metallurgy methods. Chemical and mechanical properties of the specimens were studied. Zn is an alternative to the magnesium (Mg) and iron (Fe) as a biodegradable metal. Zn can have suitable biodegradation rate than the Mg or iron (Fe). Recent studies confirm that the Zn is nontoxic and can provide proper osseointegration. In general, Zn alloys have low melting temperature, machinability, and low oxygen reactivity. Electrochemical corrosion performance of the Zn-Mn-Mg alloys was tested in simulated body fluid. Biodegradation rate of the Zn-Mn-Mg alloys was investigated by using weight loss and metal ion release study. Zn ion release amounts were lower than the upper limit for the humans. Effect of the Mn and Mg contents on the Zn alloy was studied. Electrochemical corrosion tests of the Zn-Mn-Mg alloys showed that the corrosion rate increased from 0.30 to 0.66 mm/year by increasing Mg content of the alloy from 1.0 to 10.0 %. Zn ion release amounts were about 177-211 ppm which were much lower than the upper toxic limit for the humans of about 40 mg/day.