Magnesium alloys for biomedical application: Advanced corrosion control through surface coating

Several magnesium alloys are increasingly used for a variety of biomedical applications, owing to their favorable mechanical and biomedical properties. However, in vivo corrosion in aqueous environment including Cl ion-rich extracellular fluid (ECF) requires the application of protective coatings as well as the development of advanced alloy formulations with increased corrosion resistance and uniform, non-localized dissolution modes. This contribution reviews recent promising approaches towards improved biostability of Mg alloys during in vitro contact with simulated body fluid (SBF) as well as in vivo exposure to ECF. Emphasis is being put on surface coatings for corrosion protection as well as on functional osseoconductive coatings that stimulate tissue ingrowth.