In vitro study of the PLLA-Mg65Zn30Ca5 composites as potential biodegradable materials for bone implants

PLLA-magnesium composites have been widely investigated as potential biodegradable materials for bone implants. Lower/higher corrosion resistance of the crystalized/amorphous magnesium alloys allows tailoring of biodegradability rate. In this work, the amorphous Mg65Zn30Ca5 was investigated versus traditional crystalized Mg65Zn30Ca5, and a PLLA-Mg65Zn30Ca5 composite has been successfully fabricated using hot injection process. Furthermore, the high corrosion resistance of the amorphous Mg65Zn30Ca5 prevented the high alkalization and deterioration of mechanical strength. In addition, the high Zn content intended to improve the glass forming ability, also enhances the anti-bacterial property of the PLLA-Mg65Zn30Ca5 composite. The remarkable performance of the PLLA-Mg65Zn30Ca5 composite shows its promising application in bone repair and tissue regeneration.