Evaluation of the biodegradation product layer on Mg-1Zn alloy during dynamical strain

Magnesium (Mg) alloys are attractive biodegradable implant materials. The degradation products on Mg alloys play a critical role in the stability of the interface between implant and surrounding tissue. In the present study, the effects of dynamic deformation on the interface layer of biomedical Mg-1Zn alloy were investigated using the constant extension rate tensile tests (CERT) coupled with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The deformation of the Mg-1Zn alloy had an adverse influence on the impedance of the surface degradation layer formed in simulated body fluid that only containing inorganic compounds. However, the surface degradation layer with improved corrosion resistance was obtained for the strained samples tested in protein-containing simulated body fluid. The spontaneous or enhanced adsorption of protein into the degradation product led to a flexible and stable hybrid anti-corrosive layer. A relationship between the dynamic deformation of Mg alloy and the impendence of the degradation layer was established, which demonstrates the necessity for in situ characterisation of the evolution of the surface layer under dynamic condition.