Status and Challenges in Biomedical Applications of LDHs

This work briefly discusses the applications of Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs) to medicine and presents a study regarding the growth of LDHs on the biodegradable AZ31 alloy foreseen to manufacture a rib-fixator. Mg is one of the most investigated metallic materials for biomedical applications owing to its high biocompatibility and osteointegration, as well as a value of the elastic modulus close to that of human bone. Since Mg is essential for metabolism, when it degrades forming Mg 2+ ions, it promotes healing and growth of bone tissue. Experiments have been carried out to grow LDHs on the alloy surface in view to retard corrosion in human body and intercalate drugs to be released in-situ, with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial action.