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Description
Progress in bioabsorbable metals is of great importance since they can be used to produce temporary implants, replacing permanent ones, and thus limiting harmful side effects linked with their long-term presence in a patient body. The interest in bioabsorbable metals for biomedical applications is growing. With the acceleration of an aging society, human health and quality of life are among the most critical issues. The replacement of human tissue by implants is one of the conditions of supporting long and good physical condition of the as complicated machine as human. The orthopedic market in the world is forecasted to potential growth for next year’s mainly by sports injuries and car accidents (e.g., https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/market-insight/orthopedic-trauma-devices-market-130) but also caused by osteoporosis. Replacement for permanent bone implants is required, what will prevent secondary surgeries and complications connected with metallic parts inside a human body.
Therefore, in the frame of this project, it is planned to produce ZnMg0.5 alloys with the addition of a small amount of Ca and Sr and proceeded by hydrostatic extrusion. A prototype of an orthopedic screw with enhanced properties will be designed and subjected to mechanical, microstructural, and corrosion investigation. The innovative approach proposed in the project covers the implementation of quaternary zinc alloys with satisfying mechanical properties obtained by alloying and hydrostatic extrusion, along with a beneficial impact on corrosion and biological properties. The series of globally unique prototype elements in the form of bone screws made of highly strengthened bioabsorbable Zn alloy designed and manufactured during the project will be presented to companies involved in manufacturing biomedical devices. This study can provide a new direction in the development of new generation orthopedic implants.