nano - scale surface morphology of magnesium anodized in a 10 m koH electrolyte

Magnesium (Mg) is a promising implant material for orthopedic applications due to its biodegradability and desirable mechanical properties. However, in order for Mg to have wide-spread clinical relevance, engineering solutions that address the rapid degradation in physiological environments and promote increased bone-forming activity are necessary. The objective of this study was to develop an anodization process using a toxicant-free electrolyte to modulate nano-scale surface features and surface chemistry on Mg. Anodic polarization and potentiostatic anodization tests were used to evaluate the effect of applied potential on surface morphology of Mg in a 10 M KOH electrolyte. The alkaline electrolyte used for anodization of Mg in this study offers an alternative to commercial processes that use highly toxic elements. The anodized samples were annealed to investigate the effect of thermal treatments on surface morphology and chemical composition. The nanostructure and chemical composition of the anodized and annealed Mg substrates were characterized using a scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy. Our results showed that the nanostructures and chemical composition of anodically-generated oxide layers on Mg are specifi c to each oxidation process in a 10 M KOH electrolyte. Our results begin to suggest the possibility to rationally design the surface features at the nano-scale and improve the corrosion resistance of bulk Mg. keywords: oxidation of magnesium, potentiostatic anodization, nanostructure, annealing f A C u l T y M e n T o R Huinan Liu Department of Bioengineering, Department of Material Sciences and Engineering, UCR Stem Cell Center Professor Liu's research is to understand cell-biomaterial and tissue-biomaterial interactions in 2D and 3D and to develop better tissue substitutes and medical implant materials using biodegradable polymers, ceramic nanoparticles, polymer/ceramic nanocomposites and bioresorbable metals. a u t h o r