A possible biodegradable magnesium implant material

A study was conducted to develop and study the possibility of using magnesium as a degradable bio-compatible implants. A magnesium ingot was cut into 1-2 cm3 coupons which was used for corrosion tests and making electrodes. The Hank solution was used as a simulated body fluid (SBF) and its pH was adjusted with HCl to a slightly acidic level (pH~ 6) to avoid precipitation or formation of sediments in the solution. The coupons were polished with up to 1000 grit SiC paper and AC impedance spectra and polarization curves were analyzed. It was observed that magnesium is compatible with the human body and the direct corrosion product Mg2+ can be tolerated in the human body, while rapid accumulation of corrosion by-products such as hydrogen gas and hydroxides may exclude the possible application of magnesium vent in vascular system. Result shows that magnesium vents cannot be used vascular system due to hydrogen gas, but it can be used as implant for broken bones.