Abstract
This work is focused on the investigation of two Mg-based alloys, Mg-Y and Mg-Li-Y, as potentially new materials for biodegradable applications. Both alloys were processed by equal channel angular pressing, and the effects of yttrium or lithium addition on the microstructure, corrosion resistance, in vitro degradation in biological media, cytotoxicity, and mechanical properties were investigated.
The commercially well-known Mg-Y-RE-Zr (WE-type) alloy was processed similarly and used as a benchmark in all tests. The WE-type magnesium alloy provides a satisfactory degradation rate in conjunction with mechanical strength in the field of temporary implantable devices.
Microstructure evolution was analysed by scanning and transmission electron microscope and electron backscatter diffraction. The mechanical properties of the investigated alloys were tested by compression deformation tests.
The initial corrosion resistance in the salt solution was examined by the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy method and the degradation rate in the biological media was determined by employing immersion tests.