Mechanical and corrosion properties of newly developed biodegradable Zn-based alloys for bone fixation

Zn-Mg and Zn-Ag Degradation Mechanism Under Biologically Relevant Conditions

“…13,14 However, numerous in vivo studies show thin thickness of neointimal tissue and tissue regeneration. 4, 13 Vojtech et al 11 estimated the daily release from a zinc bone screw to be 1·5 mg/d. This can be compared to the 2-3 g of zinc contained in the human body and the recommended dietary allowance of 15 mg/d.…”

“…9,10 Zinc (Zn) was recently suggested as an alternative degradable metal or alloy base. 11,12 The toxicity of zinc is higher than that of iron or magnesium, and concerns have therefore been raised regarding its biocompatibility. Cytotoxicity studies have shown a reduced viability of vascular smooth muscle cells grown in zinc alloy extracts.…”

“…11,12 Both in vivo and in vitro studies have determined the corrosion rate to be in the order of tens of micrometers per year, between the degradation rates of magnesium and iron. 11,12,17 Pure zinc, however, is soft and exhibit relatively low tensile strength. In order to improve the mechanical properties of zinc, researches have suggested several alloying elements.…”

“…This can be compared to the 2-3 g of zinc contained in the human body and the recommended dietary allowance of 15 mg/d. 11,15,16 The corrosion rate of pure zinc appears to be ideal for cardiovascular stent and bone fixation applications in order to retain the mechanical properties during the entire healing process. 11,12 Both in vivo and in vitro studies have determined the corrosion rate to be in the order of tens of micrometers per year, between the degradation rates of magnesium and iron.…”

“…11,15,16 The corrosion rate of pure zinc appears to be ideal for cardiovascular stent and bone fixation applications in order to retain the mechanical properties during the entire healing process. 11,12 Both in vivo and in vitro studies have determined the corrosion rate to be in the order of tens of micrometers per year, between the degradation rates of magnesium and iron. 11,12,17 Pure zinc, however, is soft and exhibit relatively low tensile strength.…”