Executive Summary : | Metallic materials like stainless steel, cobalt-chrome, and titanium-based alloys are crucial in orthopedic surgery. Degradable metals like Mg magnesium, Fe iron, Zn zinc, and Mn manganese are being researched for biomedical applications. This project aims to develop Zn and its alloys as degradable implants by quantifying their physical effects and suitability for future human applications. The developed zinc alloys will be characterized, evaluated for biodegradability, and tested in simulations. The Slovenian partners will collaborate to facilitate knowledge transfer and develop biocompatible and biodegradable implants.
The proposed research focuses on developing bio-degradable materials, specifically magnesium-based alloys and coatings for magnesium alloys. The project aims to develop Zn alloys, particularly Zn-Mg, for degradable implant applications. The advantages of this project include tailored biodegradation, no toxic side effects, and no need for a second operation. However, zinc has poor mechanical properties and requires deformation processing to refine its microstructure and improve its mechanical properties. The project aims to investigate two alloy systems Zn-Mg and Zn-Mn, fabricated using four forming techniques: rolling, extrusion, Friction Stir Processing FSP, and Equal Channel Angular. |