Electrochemical characteristics of bioresorbable binary MgCa alloys in Ringer's solution: Revealing the impact of local pH distributions during in-vitro dissolution

Additive Manufactured Magnesium-Based Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering

Additive manufacturing (AM) is an important technology that led to a high evolution in the manufacture of personalized implants adapted to the anatomical requirements of patients. Due to a worldwide graft shortage, synthetic scaffolds must be developed. Regarding this aspect, biodegradable materials such as magnesium and its alloys are a possible solution because the second surgery for implant removal is eliminated. Magnesium (Mg) exhibits mechanical properties, which are similar to human bone, biodegradability in human fluids, high biocompatibility, and increased ability to stimulate new bone formation. A current research trend consists of Mg-based scaffold design and manufacture using AM technologies. This review presents the importance of biodegradable implants in treating bone defects, the most used AM methods to produce Mg scaffolds based on powder metallurgy, AM-manufactured implants properties, and in vitro and in vivo analysis. Scaffold properties such as biodegradation, densification, mechanical properties, microstructure, and biocompatibility are presented with examples extracted from the recent literature. The challenges for AM-produced Mg implants by taking into account the available literature are also discussed.

Micro-Sized pH Sensors Based on Scanning Electrochemical Probe Microscopy

Monitoring pH changes at the micro/nano scale is essential to gain a fundamental understanding of surface processes. Detection of local pH changes at the electrode/electrolyte interface can be achieved through the use of micro-/nano-sized pH sensors. When combined with scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM), these sensors can provide measurements with high spatial resolution. This article reviews the state-of-the-art design and fabrication of micro-/nano-sized pH sensors, as well as their applications based on SECM. Considerations for selecting sensing probes for use in biological studies, corrosion science, in energy applications, and for environmental research are examined. Different types of pH sensitive probes are summarized and compared. Finally, future trends and emerging applications of micro-/nano-sized pH sensors are discussed.

Electrochemical and In Vitro Biological Evaluation of Bio-Active Coatings Deposited by Magnetron Sputtering onto Biocompatible Mg-0.8Ca Alloy

The use of resorbable magnesium alloys in the design of implants represents a new direction in the healthcare domain. Two main research avenues are currently explored for developing or improving metallic biomaterials: (i) increase of their corrosion resistance by designed compositional and structural modifications, and (ii) functionalization of their surfaces by coating with ceramic or polymeric layers. The main objective of this work was to comparatively assess bio-functional coatings (i.e., highly-crystallized hydroxyapatite and silica-rich glass) deposited by radio-frequency magnetron sputtering (RF-MS) on a biodegradable Mg-0.8Ca alloy (0.8 wt.% of Ca). After probing their morphology (by scanning electron microscopy) and structure (by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and grazing incidence X-ray diffraction), the corrosion resistance of the RF-MS coated Mg-0.8Ca substrates was electrochemically tested (in synthetic biological media with different degrees of biomimicry), and their cytocompatibility was assessed in osteoblast and fibroblast cell cultures. By collective assessment, the most promising performances, in terms of mass loss (~7% after 12 days), hydrogen release rate (~6 mL/cm² after 12 days), electrochemical corrosion parameters and cytocompatibility, were obtained for the crystalline HA coating.

Magnesium-Based Alloys Used in Orthopedic Surgery

Magnesium (Mg)-based alloys have become an important category of materials that is attracting more and more attention due to their high potential use as orthopedic temporary implants. These alloys are a viable alternative to nondegradable metals implants in orthopedics. In this paper, a detailed overview covering alloy development and manufacturing techniques is described. Further, important attributes for Mg-based alloys involved in orthopedic implants fabrication, physiological and toxicological effects of each alloying element, mechanical properties, osteogenesis, and angiogenesis of Mg are presented. A section detailing the main biocompatible Mg-based alloys, with examples of mechanical properties, degradation behavior, and cytotoxicity tests related to in vitro experiments, is also provided. Special attention is given to animal testing, and the clinical translation is also reviewed, focusing on the main clinical cases that were conducted under human use approval.

Fluoride Treatment and In Vitro Corrosion Behavior of Mg-Nd-Y-Zn-Zr Alloys Type

Fluoride conversion coatings on Mg present many advantages, among which one can find the reduction of the corrosion rate under “in vivo” or “in vitro” conditions and the promotion of the calcium phosphate deposition. Moreover, the fluoride ions released from MgF₂ do not present cytotoxic effects and inhibit the biofilm formation, and thus these treated alloys are very suitable for cardiovascular stents and biodegradable orthopedic implants. In this paper, the biodegradation behavior of four new magnesium biodegradable alloys that have been developed in the laboratory conditions, before and after surface modifications by fluoride conversion (and sandblasting) coatings, are analyzed. We performed structural and surface analysis (XRD, SEM, contact angle) before and after applying different surface treatments. Furthermore, we studied the electrochemical behavior and biodegradation of all experimental samples after immersion test performed in NaCl solution. For a better evaluation, we also used LM and SEM for evaluation of the corroded samples after immersion test. The results showed an improved corrosion resistance for HF treated alloy in the NaCl solution. The chemical composition, uniformity, thickness and stability of the layers generated on the surface of the alloys significantly influence their corrosion behavior. Our study reveals that HF treatment is a beneficial way to improve the biofunctional properties required for the studied magnesium alloys to be used as biomaterials for manufacturing the orthopedic implants.

Mg Biodegradation Mechanism Deduced from the Local Surface Environment under Simulated Physiological Conditions

Although certified magnesium-based implants are launched some years ago, the not well-defined Mg degradation mechanism under physiological conditions makes it difficult to standardize its use as a degradable biomaterial for a wide range of implant applications. Among other variables influencing the Mg degradation mechanism, monitoring the pH in the corrosive solution and, especially, at the corroding interface is important due to its direct relation with the formation and stability of the degradation products layer. The interface pH (pH at the Mg/solution interface) developed on Mg-2Ag and E11 alloys are studied in situ during immersion under dynamic conditions (1.5 mL min^-1 ) in HBSS with and without the physiological amount of Ca²⁺ cations (2.5 × 10^-3 m). The results show that the precipitation/dissolution of amorphous phosphate-containing phases, that can be associated with apatitic calcium-phosphates Ca_{10- x} (PO₄ )_{6- x} (HPO₄ or CO₃ )_x (OH or ½ CO₃ )_{2- x} with 0 ≤ x ≤ 2 (Ap-CaP), promoted in the presence of Ca²⁺ generates an effective local pH buffering system at the surface. Thus, high alkalinization is prevented, and the interface pH is stabilized in the range of 7.6 to 8.5.

Surface Modification of Biomedical MgCa4.5 and MgCa4.5Gd0.5 Alloys by Micro-Arc Oxidation

The aim of this work was to characterize the structure and corrosion properties of the MgCa_4.5(Gd_0.5) alloys surface treated by the micro-arc oxidation (MAO) process. The MgCa_4.5 and MgCa_4.5Gd_0.5 alloy samples were processed by MAO in an electrolyte composed of NaOH (10 g/dm³), NaF (10 g/dm³), NaH₂PO₄ (5 g/dm³), Na₂SiO₂·5H₂O (10 g/dm³) and water. Two different voltages (120 V and 140 V) were used in the MAO process. The alloys protected by an oxide layer formed in the MAO were then the subject of corrosion resistance tests in an environment simulating the human body (Ringer’s solution). After the experiments, the resulting samples were investigated using SEM, XPS and EDS techniques. The addition of Gd affected the fragmentation of the coating structure, thereby increasing the specific surface; higher voltages during the MAO process increased the number and size of surface pores. Corrosion tests showed that the MgCa_4.5Gd_0.5 alloys were characterized by low polarization resistances and high corrosion current densities. The studies indicated the disadvantageous influence of gadolinium on the corrosion resistance of MgCa_4.5 alloys. The immersion tests confirmed lower corrosion resistance of MgCa_4.5Gd_0.5 alloys compared to the referenced MgCa_4.5 ones. The MgCa_4.5 alloy with the MAO coating established at voltage 140 V demonstrated the best anticorrosion properties.

Organic/inorganic double solutions for magnesium–air batteries

In order to limit the anode corrosion and improve the battery activity, magnesium–air batteries with organic/inorganic double solutions (0.5 M Mg(ClO₄)₂–N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF)/0.6 M NaCl–H₂O, 0.5 M Mg(ClO₄)₂–acetonitrile (AN)/0.6 M NaCl–H₂O) were prepared.

Controlling the Degradation Rate of Biodegradable Mg-Zn-Mn Alloys for Orthopedic Applications by Electrophoretic Deposition of Hydroxyapatite Coating

Magnesium alloys as bioresorbable materials with good biocompatibility have raised a growing interest in the past years in temporary implant manufacturing, as they offer a steady resorption rate and optimal healing in the body. Magnesium exhibits tensile strength properties similar to those of natural bone, which determines its application in load-bearing mechanical medical devices. In this paper, we investigated the biodegradation rate of Mg-Zn-Mn biodegradable alloys (ZMX410 and ZM21) before and after coating them with hydroxyapatite (HAP) via the electrophoretic deposition method. The experimental samples were subjected to corrosion tests to observe the effect of HAP deposition on corrosion resistance and, implicitly, the rate of biodegradation of these in simulated environments. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) provided detailed information on the quality, structure, and morphology of the HAP coating. The obtained results demonstrate that coating of Mg-Zn-Mn alloys by HAP led to the improvement of corrosion resistance in simulated environments, and that the HAP coating could be used in order to control the biodegradation rate.

Mechanical and Corrosion Properties of Mg-Based Alloys with Gd Addition

Magnesium alloys with rare earth metals are very attractive materials for medical application because of satisfactory mechanical properties. Nevertheless, low corrosion resistance is an obstacle in the use of Mg alloys as resorbable orthopedic implants. The paper presents results of mechanical and corrosion properties of MgCa5-xZn1Gdx (x = 1, 2, and 3 wt. %) alloys. Based on the microscopic observations it was stated that the studied alloys show a dendritic microstructure with interdendritic solute rich regions. The phase analysis reveals an occurrence of α-Mg and Mg₂Ca, Ca₂Mg₆Zn₃ phases that are thermodynamic predictions, and stated Mg₂₆Zn₅₉Gd₇ phases in MgCa5-xZn1Gdx (x = 1, 2, and 3 wt. %) alloys. The Mg₂₆Zn₅₉Gd₇ phases are visible as lamellar precipitations along interdendritic regions. It was confirmed that an increase of Gd content from 1 to 3 wt. % improves ultimate tensile (R_m; from 74 to 89 MPa) and compressive strength (R_c; from 184 to 221 MPa). Moreover, the studied alloys are active in Ringer’s solution. They are characterized by an increase of corrosion potential (E_corr) of about 150 mV in comparison with values of open circuit potential (E_OCP). The best electrochemical parameters (e.g., corrosion current density, i_corr, polarization resistance, R_p, and E_corr) were obtained for the MgCa3Zn1Gd2 alloy.

Magnesium Filled Polylactic Acid (PLA) Material for Filament Based 3D Printing

The main objective of this research is to prove the viability of obtaining magnesium (Mg) filled polylactic acid (PLA) biocomposites as filament feedstock for material extrusion-based additive manufacturing (AM). These materials can be used for medical applications, thus benefiting of all the advantages offered by AM technology in terms of design freedom and product customization. Filaments were produced from two PLA + magnesium + vitamin E (α-tocopherol) compositions and then used for manufacturing test samples and ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) screws on a low-cost 3D printer. Filaments and implant screws were characterized using SEM (scanning electron microscopy), FTIR (fourier transform infrared spectrometry), and DSC (differential scanning calorimetry) analysis. Although the filament manufacturing process could not ensure a uniform distribution of Mg particles within the PLA matrix, a good integration was noticed, probably due to the use of vitamin E as a precursor. The results also show that the composite biomaterials can ensure and maintain implant screws structural integrity during the additive manufacturing process.

Microstructure Evolution in Mg-Zn-Zr-Gd Biodegradable Alloy: The Decisive Bridge Between Extrusion Temperature and Performance

Being a biocompatible metal with similar mechanical properties as bones, magnesium bears both biodegradability suitable for bone substitution and chemical reactivity detrimental in bio-ambiences. To benefit its biomaterial applications, we developed Mg-2.0Zn-0.5Zr-3.0Gd (wt%) alloy through hot extrusion and tailored its biodegradability by just varying the extrusion temperatures during alloy preparations. The as-cast alloy is composed of the α-Mg matrix, a network of the fish-bone shaped and ellipsoidal (Mg, Zn)₃Gd phase, and a lamellar long period stacking ordered phase. Surface content of dynamically recrystallized (DRXed) and large deformed grains increases within 330–350°C of the extrusion temperature, and decreases within 350–370°C. Sample second phase contains the (Mg, Zn)₃Gd nano-rods parallel to the extrusion direction, and Mg₂Zn₁₁ nanoprecipitation when temperature tuned above 350°C. Refining microstructures leads to different anticorrosive ability of the alloys as given by immersion and electrochemical corrosion tests in the simulated body fluids. The sample extruded at 350°C owns the best anticorrosive ability thanks to structural impacts where large DRXed portions and uniform nanosized grains reduce chemical potentials among composites, and passivate the extruded surfaces. Besides materials applications, the in vitro mechanism revealed here is hoped to inspire similar researches in biometal developments.

Effect of calcium on the microstructure and corrosion behavior of microarc oxidized Mg-xCa alloys

Magnesium alloys are potential biodegradable implants for biomedical applications, and calcium (Ca) is one kind of ideal element being examined for magnesium alloys and biodegradable ceramic coatings owing to its biocompatibility and mechanical suitability. In this study, microarc oxidation (MAO) coatings were prepared on Mg-xCa alloys to study the effect of Ca on the microstructure and corrosion resistance of Mg-xCa alloys and their surface MAO coatings. The electrochemical corrosion behavior was investigated using an electrochemical workstation, and the degradability and bioactivity were evaluated by soaking tests in simulated body fluid (SBF) solutions. The corrosion products were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffractometry, and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry. The effects of Ca on the alloy phase composition, microstructure, MAO coating formation mechanism, and corrosion behavior were investigated. Results showed that the Mg-0.82Ca alloy and MAO-coated Mg-0.82Ca exhibited the highest corrosion resistance. The number and distribution of Mg₂Ca phases can be controlled by adjusting the Ca content in the Mg-xCa alloys. The proper amount of Ca in magnesium alloy was about 0.5-0.8 wt. %. The pore size, surface roughness, and corrosion behavior of microarc oxidized Mg-xCa samples can be controlled by the number and distribution of the Mg₂Ca phase. The corrosion behaviors of microarc oxidized Mg-Ca in SBF solutions were discussed.

Osteosynthesis of a cranio-osteoplasty with a biodegradable magnesium plate system in miniature pigs

Biodegradable magnesium alloys are a new class of implant material suitable for bone surgery. The aim of this study was to investigate plates and screws made of magnesium for osteosynthesis in comparison to titanium in a cranial fracture model. Implants were used for internal fixation of a cranio-osteoplasty in nine minipigs. Computed tomography was conducted repeatedly after surgery. The implants and the adjacent tissues were harvested 10, 20 and 30weeks after surgery and investigated by micro-computed tomography and histological analysis. The surgical procedure and the inserted osteosynthesis material were well tolerated by the animals, and the bone healing of the osteoplasty was undisturbed at all times. The adjacent bone showed formation of lacunas in the magnesium group, resulting in a lower bone-to-implant contact ratio than that of titanium (72 vs. 94% at week 30), but this did not lead to clinical side effects. Radiological measurements showed no reduction in osteosynthesis material volume, but indicated signs of degradation: distinct volumes within the magnesium osteosynthesis group had lower density in micro-computed tomography, and these volumes increased up to 9% at week 30. The histological preparations showed areas of translucency and porosity inside the magnesium, but the outer shape of the osteosynthesis material remained unchanged. No fracture or loosening of the osteosynthesis devices appeared. Soft tissue probes confirmed sufficient biocompatibility. Given their biodegradable capacity, biocompatibility, mechanical strength and visibility on radiographs, osteosynthesis plates made of magnesium alloys are suitable for internal fixation procedures.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

To the best of our knowledge this is the first study that used biodegradable magnesium implants for osteosynthesis in a cranial fracture model. The cranio-osteoplasty in miniature pigs allowed in vivo application of plate and screw osteosynthesis of standard-sized implants and the implementation of surgical procedures similar to those conducted on human beings. The osteosynthesis configuration, size, and mechanical properties of the magnesium implants within this study were comparable to those of titanium-based osteosynthesis materials. The results clearly show that bone healing was undisturbed in all cases and that the biocompatibility to hard- and soft tissue was sufficient. Magnesium implants might help to avoid long-term complications and secondary removal procedures due to their biodegradable properties.

Fatigue behaviors of HP-Mg, Mg-Ca and Mg-Zn-Ca biodegradable metals in air and simulated body fluid

The dynamic loading in human body, along with the corrosive body fluid, presents a great challenge for the practical use of biodegradable magnesium implants. In this study, a high purity magnesium (99.99wt.%) and two typical promising biodegradable magnesium alloys (binary Mg-1Ca and ternary Mg-2Zn-0.2Ca) were chosen as the experimental materials. Their dynamic mechanical performances were comparatively evaluated by carrying out fatigue tests in air and in simulated body fluid (SBF). The fatigue strengths of HP-Mg, Mg-1Ca and Mg-2Zn-0.2Ca were all around 90MPa in air, however, they decreased to 52MPa, 70MPa and 68MPa in SBF at 4×10(6)cycles, respectively. The fatigue cracks initiated from the microstructural defects when tested in air, but nucleated from surface corrosion pits when tested in SBF. Cyclic loading significantly increased the corrosion rates of all the experimental materials compared to that in static SBF. Moreover, based on our findings, the fatigue failure processes and interactions between material, corrosion and cyclic loading were systematically discussed.

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

Fatigue strength and life are vital parameters to the design of metallic implant devices. For the corrosion fatigue of biomedical magnesium alloys, we reported the corrosion fatigue behavior of AZ91D and WE43 in SBF (Acta Biomaterialia, 6 (2010) 4605-4613), and till now there is no other reports to our knowledge. We spent 3years to finish the fatigue testing and get S-N curves for three more magnesium biomaterials, and our significant finding is that the fatigue strengths of HP-Mg, Mg-1Ca and Mg-2Zn-0.2Ca are all around 90MPa in air but 52MPa, 70MPa and 68MPa in SBF at 4×10(6)cycles, which will provide the first-hand data for the future magnesium implants design.

Influence of bicarbonate concentration on the conversion layer formation onto AZ31 magnesium alloy and its electrochemical corrosion behaviour in simulated body fluid

The electrochemical corrosion behaviour of a magnesium carbonate conversion layer-coated AZ31 magnesium alloy was evaluated in simulated body fluid (SBF) solution.