Mechanical properties, degradation behaviors and biocompatibility evaluation of a biodegradable Zn-Mg-Cu alloy for cardiovascular implants

In this study, hot extruded pure Zn and Zn-0.02Mg-0.02Cu alloy were prepared. Compared with the pure Zn, the tensile yield strength, ultimate tensile strength and hardness of the Zn-based alloy were significantly improved, reaching 216.29 ± 3.27 MPa, 262.25 ± 5.02 MPa and 74.40 ± 1.84 HV, respectively, satisfying the criteria of biodegradable stents. Electrochemical corrosion and immersion test showed that the corrosion rates of the Zn-based alloy were higher than those of pure Zn. In addition, the Zn-based alloy exhibited excellent biocompatibility for the development of zebrafish embryos and in vivo subcutaneous tissue without severe inflammatory response. These results indicate that the novel Zn-based alloy has a huge potential in cardiovascular stents.