Development of a novel micro-textured surface using duplex surface modification for biomedical Mg alloy applications

A duplex surface-modification technique that combines ultrasonic-assisted etching and the fluoride-conversion method was successively applied on the surface of a Mg alloy, and was called the MagNest surface. The results showed that the MagNest surface possessed bowl-like nest structures about 15-35 µm in diameter and 2-5 µm in depth. Electrochemical testing verified that the corrosion resistance was increased, indicating that corrosion was effectively inhibited by the surface modification. The MagNest surface also exhibited non-cytotoxicity for MG63 osteoblast-like cells, with most adhered MG63 cells rapidly extending their cell membrane and filopodia. This demonstrates the excellent cytocompatibility of this surface modification, and so constitutes a promising biodegradable material.