Biodegradable behavior and antibacterial activities of a novel Zn-0.5%Li-(Ag) alloys

Abstract In this work, a novel Zn-0.5%Li-(Ag) alloys were successfully prepared by molten casting technology, and the microstructure, mechanical properties and the biodegradation behavior of Zn-based alloys in a Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium (fetal bovine serum) were assessed. Additionally, their antibacterial properties were investigated by assaying the cell viability of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and by disc diffusion antibiotic sensitivity testing. The alloys had a reduced corrosion rate due a grain refinement effect (through more readily passivation) provided by nano-LiZn₄ precipitates and Zn(OH)₂/ZnO and ZnCO₃ spontaneous precipitation on the surface. The Zn-0.5%Li-0.2%Ag alloy has no cytotoxicity, and which achieved highest mechanical properties ( tensile strengths of 278.3MPa and percentage elongation (ε) of 96.2%) and excellent antibacterial properties.