Mechanical properties and biocorrosion behaviour of as-cast Zn-xCu-Sr alloys for cardiovascular bioabsorbable devices

Abstract

In this study, the mechanical and biocorrosion behavior of as-cast Zn-xCu-0.1Sr (x = 1, 2, and 3wt%) alloys for potential application was studied. The microstructure, mechanical properties, and in vitro degradation of Zn-xCu-0.1Sr alloys were investigated. The results show that as Cu content increased from 1.0 to 3.0wt%, the number of CuZn5 phases increased and the average grain size of CuZn5 phases increased from 6.96 μm to 10.92 μm. The 2wt% addition of Cu resulted in the best mechanical properties with 129.4 MPa in ultimate tensile strength and 108.4 MPa in yield strength. Furthermore, the higher corrosion rate was experienced in the alloys with higher Cu content after immersion. Zn-xCu-0.1Sr alloys all presented appropriate in vitro degradation rates in a basically uniform degradation mode. The strength, ductility and biocorrosion property exhibited by the Zn-2Cu-0.1Sr alloy compositions make it a promising candidate for cardiovascular stent applications.