Corrosion and Biological Behaviour of Magnesium-based Biocomposites

Abstract

For biodegradable implants, magnesium (Mg) alloys are promising materials due to several advantages, including reduced implant stress and the elimination of the need for a secondary surgery. However, deterioration in the simulated body fluid (SBF) may disintegrate the magnesium, leading to implant failure, which is the main challenge that compromises the mechanical integrity and functional life of the implant. To address this issue, research has been conducted on the development of Mg-based composites incorporating various bioactive ceramic particle reinforcements. The addition of ceramic particles as reinforcements, viz.: bioactive glass (BG), fluorapatite (FA), zinc oxide (ZnO), hydroxyapatite (HAp), β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), titanium dioxide (TiO₂), and magnesium oxide (MgO), represents the potential to improve corrosion resistance, biological interaction, and mechanical performance. This review provides an overview of magnesium-based biocomposites for medical applications, with a particular focus on the role of ceramic particles in controlling degradation behavior. The article discusses the evolution of biodegradable implant materials (biomaterials), different reinforcements, the corrosion mechanism of Mg-based materials, and their biocompatibility in simulated body fluid. Also, the effects of different reinforcements on mechanical characteristics, microstructure, and corrosion resistance are analyzed. The review also highlights current challenges: controlling the degradation rate and maintaining mechanical strength during healing. Finally, future research directions for advanced Mg-based biocomposites for biomedical and orthopedic applications are outlined.