Theses and Dissertations - UTB/UTPA
Date of Award
5-2014
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Mechanical Engineering
First Advisor
Dr. Waseem Haider
Second Advisor
Dr. Karen Lozano
Third Advisor
Dr. Dorina Mihut
Abstract
Magnesium alloys have raised immense interest to many researchers because of its evolution as a new third generation material. Due to their biocompatibility, density, and mechanical properties, magnesium alloys are frequently reported as prospective biodegradable implant materials. Moreover, magnesium based alloys experience a natural phenomena to biodegrade in aqueous solutions due to its corrosive activity, which is excellent for orthopedic and cardiovascular applications. However, major concerns with such alloys are fast and non-uniform corrosion degradation. Controlling the degradation rate in the physiological environment determines the success of an implant. In this investigation, three grades of magnesium alloys: AZ31B, AZ91E and ZK60A were studied for their corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. Scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and contact angle meter are used to study surface morphology, chemistry, roughness and wettability, respectively. Additionally, the cytotoxicity of the leached metal ions was evaluated by a tetrazolium based bio-assay, MTS.
Granting Institution
University of Texas-Pan American
Comments
Copyright 2014 Luis Enrique Pompa. All Rights Reserved.
https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/corrosion-assessment-enhanced-biocompatibility/docview/1560677468/se-2