Magnesium-based composites and alloys for medical applications: A review of mechanical and corrosion properties

Magnesium (Mg)-based biocomposites and bioalloys are used in biomedical applications such as bone fixation, cardiovascular stents, hip joints, screws/pins, and dental implants. This review focuses on the mechanical properties and corrosion behavior of magnesium-based biocomposites and alloys. These properties are critically discussed to evaluate the development of modern Mg-based biocomposites and alloys for biomedical applications. Metallic and ceramic reinforcements such as Ti, Zn, TiO₂, MgO, ZnO, ZrO₂, TiB_2, and Al₂O₃ are bioactive, bioinert, have suitable mechanical properties and are highly dependent on the processing routes. Powder metallurgy and disintegrated melt deposition are promising approaches to develop Mg-based composites for biomedical applications. The corrosion resistance is related to the stability of deposits and their chemical stability in in vivo and in vitro environments. Ca, TiO₂, hydroxyapatite (HA), and fluorapatite (FA) are inferred to exhibit better corrosion resistance.