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A special issue of Materials (ISSN 1996-1944). This special issue belongs to the section "Biomaterials".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 January 2024) | Viewed by 13295

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Dr. Madalina Simona Baltatu

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Department of Technologies and Equipment for Materials Processing, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Technical University Gheorghe Asachi of Iasi, 700050 Iasi, Romania
Interests: materials science; durability of materials in civil engineering; sustainable cementitious materials; metallic alloys; biomaterials; biodegradable alloys; biomaterials characterization; coatings and thin films
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Dear Colleagues,

Currently, biomaterials are seen as a distinct category of materials, which are indispensable to the improvement and extension of the quality of human life, which can be used individually or as a component of a more complex system, aiming to fulfill functions for which it was designed. However, it cannot be overlooked that these materials present, in addition to advantages, some limitations. Constant improvements of biomaterials are important for a better interaction with the human body and to avoid all the adverse effects found in current biomaterials.

This Special Issue is for the colleagues who are doing immense and unstoppable work for this field, to present the latest trends and studies regarding the performing biomaterials of our days. All advances in new novel biomaterials for medical applications and research, progress on metallic biomaterials (titanium alloys, cobalt alloys, magnesium alloys, and stainless-steel alloys) is welcome to be published and shared, but not limited to natural and synthetic polymers and bio-inert and bioactive ceramics.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but not limited to) the following:

Synthesis, characterization, and applications of new biomaterials, tissue engineering, etc.;
Mechanical coating/alloying/treatment of the metallic and non-metallic materials;
Highlights key issues and challenges associated with the design of complex implantable systems.

Dr. Madalina Simona Baltatu
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Materials is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

metallic alloys
biomaterials
biocompatibility
characterization
bioactivity
ceramics
biopolymers
composite materials

Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

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22 pages, 7664 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of the Phase Composition of Titanium Alloys on Cell Adhesion and Surface Colonization

by Boris B. Straumal, Natalia Yu. Anisimova, Mikhail V. Kiselevskiy, Keryam M. Novruzov, Anna Korneva, Alena S. Gornakova, Askar R. Kilmametov, Silvana Sommadossi and Gregory Davdian

Materials 2023, 16(22), 7130; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16227130 - 11 Nov 2023

Viewed by 706

Abstract

The pivotal role of metal implants within the host’s body following reconstructive surgery hinges primarily on the initial phase of the process: the adhesion of host cells to the implant’s surface and the subsequent colonization by these cells. Notably, titanium alloys represent a significant class of materials used for crafting metal implants. This study, however, marks the first investigation into how the phase composition of titanium alloys, encompassing the volume fractions of the α, β, and ω phases, influences cell adhesion to the implant’s surface. Moreover, the research delves into the examination of induced hemolysis and cytotoxicity. To manipulate the phase composition of titanium alloys, various parameters were altered, including the chemical composition of titanium alloys with iron and niobium, annealing temperature, and high-pressure torsion parameters. By systematically adjusting these experimental parameters, we were able to discern the distinct impact of phase composition. As a result, the study unveiled that the colonization of the surfaces of the examined Ti–Nb and Ti–Fe alloys by human multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells exhibits an upward trend with the increasing proportion of the ω phase, concurrently accompanied by a decrease in the α and β phases. These findings signify a new avenue for advancing Ti-based alloys for both permanent implants and temporary fixtures, capitalizing on the ability to regulate the volume fractions of the α, β, and ω phases. Furthermore, the promising characteristics of the ω phase suggest the potential emergence of a third generation of biocompatible Ti alloys, the ω-based materials, following the first-generation α-Ti alloys and second-generation β alloys. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Research on Biocompatible Alloys)

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15 pages, 4638 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microstructural, Mechanical, and Electrochemical Characterization of CrMoNbTiZr High-Entropy Alloy for Biomedical Application

by Akeem Akinwekomi and Farid Akhtar

Materials 2023, 16(15), 5320; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16155320 - 28 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 880

Abstract

High-entropy alloys (HEA) with superior biocompatibility, high pitting resistance, minimal debris accumulation, and reduced release of metallic ions into surrounding tissues are potential replacements for traditional metallic bio-implants. A novel equiatomic HEA based on biocompatible metals, CrMoNbTiZr, was consolidated by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The relative sintered density of the alloy was about 97% of the theoretical density, indicating the suitability of the SPS technique to produce relatively dense material. The microstructure of the sintered HEA consisted of a BCC matrix and Laves phase, corresponding to the prediction of the thermodynamic CALPHAD simulation. The HEA exhibited a global Vickers microhardness of 531.5 ± 99.7 HV, while the individual BCC and Laves phases had hardness values of 364.6 ± 99.4 and 641.8 ± 63.0 HV, respectively. Its ultimate compressive and compressive yield strengths were 1235.7 ± 42.8 MPa and 1110.8 ± 78.6 MPa, respectively. The elasticity modulus of 34.9 ± 2.9 GPa of the HEA alloy was well within the range of cortical bone and significantly lower than the values reported for commonly used biomaterials made from Ti-based and Cr–Co-based alloys. In addition, the alloy exhibited good resistance to bio-corrosion in PBS and Hanks solutions. The CrMoNbTiZr HEA exhibited an average COF of 0.43 ± 0.06, characterized mainly by abrasive and adhesive wear mechanisms. The CrMoNbTiZr alloy’s mechanical, bio-corrosion, and wear resistance properties developed in this study showed a good propensity for application as a biomaterial. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Research on Biocompatible Alloys)

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15 pages, 3389 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Si Contents on the Properties of Ti15Mo7ZrxSi Alloys

by Cristina Jimenez-Marcos, Julia Claudia Mirza-Rosca, Madalina Simona Baltatu and Petrica Vizureanu

Materials 2023, 16(14), 4906; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16144906 - 09 Jul 2023

Viewed by 617

Abstract

The main purpose of this research is to evaluate the mechanical characteristics and biocompatibility of two novel titanium alloys, Ti15Mo7ZrxSi (x = 0, 0.5, 0.75, 1). These samples had already undergone grinding, polishing, cutting, and chipping. Electrochemical, metallographic, three-point bending, and microhardness studies were conducted on the studied materials to determine their corrosion behavior, microstructure, Young’s modulus, and hardness. The first investigations revealed that both samples had biphasic and dendritic structures, elastic moduli that were between the highest and minimum values achieved by around 20 GPa, and favorable behavior when in contact with physiological fluids at ambient temperature. Ti15Mo7Zr0.5Si and Ti15Mo7Zr0.75Si, the research samples, had greater corrosion potentials, reduced corrosion rates, and therefore higher corrosion resistance, as well as modulus of elasticity values that were comparable to and closer to those of human bone. The results of this investigation indicate that both alloys exhibit favorable corrosion behavior, great biocompatibility, Young’s modulus results lower than those of conventional alloys used in biomedical implants, and hardness values higher than commercially pure titanium. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Research on Biocompatible Alloys)

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15 pages, 6696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Degradation Products of Biodegradable ZnMgY Alloy

by Cătălin Panaghie, Georgeta Zegan, Alina Sodor, Nicanor Cimpoeșu, Nicoleta-Monica Lohan, Bogdan Istrate, Ana-Maria Roman and Nicoleta Ioanid

Materials 2023, 16(8), 3092; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16083092 - 14 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1203

Abstract

Biodegradable metallic materials are increasingly gaining ground in medical applications. Zn-based alloys show a degradation rate between those recorded for Mg-based materials with the fastest degradation rate and Fe-based materials with the slowest degradation rate. From the perspective of medical complications, it is essential to understand the size and nature of the degradation products developed from biodegradable materials, as well as the stage at which these residues are eliminated from the body. This paper presents investigations conducted on the corrosion/degradation products of an experimental material (ZnMgY alloy in cast and homogenized state) after immersion tests in three physiological solutions (Dulbecco’s, Ringer’s and simulated body fluid (SBF)). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to highlight the macroscopic and microscopic aspects of corrosion products and their effects on the surface. An X-ray energy dispersive detector (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) provided general information about the compounds based on their non-metallic character. The pH of the electrolyte solution was recorded for 72 h during immersion. The pH variation of the solution confirmed the main reactions proposed for the corrosion of ZnMg. The agglomerations of corrosion products were on the micrometer scale, mainly oxides, hydroxides and carbonates or phosphates. The corrosion effects on the surface were homogeneously spread, with a tendency to connect and form cracks or larger corrosion zones, transforming the pitting corrosion pattern into a generalized one. It was noticed that the alloy’s microstructure strongly influences the corrosion characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Research on Biocompatible Alloys)

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17 pages, 6625 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microstructural and Electrochemical Influence of Zn in MgCaZn Biodegradable Alloys

by Bogdan Istrate, Corneliu Munteanu, Madălina-Simona Bălțatu, Ramona Cimpoeșu and Nicoleta Ioanid

Materials 2023, 16(6), 2487; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16062487 - 21 Mar 2023

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 1275

Abstract

In recent years, biodegradable materials have included magnesium alloys with homogenous disintegration and a controllable degradation rate. Utilized in medical applications, biodegradable materials based on magnesium have been widely explored throughout the years. It is well-known that alloying Mg with biocompatible and non-toxic elements increases the biodegradability of surgical alloys. The purpose of this study was to examine the microstructure and the electrochemical response (corrosion resistance) of a new experimental Mg-based biodegradable alloy—Mg–0.5%Ca with additions of Zn as follows: 0.5, 1.5, and 3.0 wt.% in order to control the corrosion rate. Immersion tests were performed for different periods in a simulated body fluid electrolyte solution at 37 °C, and the mass loss was appreciated in order to calculate the corrosion rate (CR). The investigation led to the discovery of a dendritic Mg solid solution, a lamellar Mg₂Ca compound, and a MgZn₂ intermetallic phase. Scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy were used for surface analysis after the immersion and electro-corrosion resistance tests. The metallic and ceramic compounds that detached themselves from the sample and passed into the solution were evaluated using the SEM-EDS system. All samples presented a generalized electro-corrosion with anodic and cathodic reactions of similar intensity. The corrosion rate was similar regardless of the percentage of zinc, with a smaller value for a higher than 3 wt.% Zn percentage based on the more protective zinc oxide that appeared on the surface. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Research on Biocompatible Alloys)

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17 pages, 7233 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bredigite-CNTs Reinforced Mg-Zn Bio-Composites to Enhance the Mechanical and Biological Properties for Biomedical Applications

by Hongwei Zhang, Abbas Saberi, Zahra Heydari and Madalina Simona Baltatu

Materials 2023, 16(4), 1681; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16041681 - 17 Feb 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1555

Abstract

Magnesium (Mg) and its compounds have been investigated as biodegradable metals for bone implants. However, high corrosion rates and low bioactivity that cause loss of mechanical properties are factors that have limited their biomedical applications. The purpose of this work is to remedy the weaknesses of the Mg–Zn (MZ) alloy matrix. For this purpose, we have synthesized Mg-based composites with different concentrations of bredigite (Br; Ca₇MgSi₄O₁₆)–carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using mechanical alloying and semi-powder metallurgy processes with spark plasma sintering. Then, we studied the effect of the simultaneous addition of Br-CNTs on in vitro degradation, as well as its effect on the composites’ mechanical and antibacterial properties. Increases of 57% and 72% respectively were observed in the microhardness and compressive strength of the MZ/Br-CNTs composite in comparison to the MZ alloy. In addition, the rate of degradation of Mg-based composites in simulated body fluids (SBF) was almost 2 times lower. An assessment of antibacterial behavior disclosed that the simultaneous adding of Br-CNTs to Mg can meaningfully prevent the growth and invasion of E. coli and S. aureus. These research findings demonstrate the potential application of MZ/Br-CNTs composites to implants and the treatment of bone infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Research on Biocompatible Alloys)

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22 pages, 7545 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Filler Types on Cellulose-Acetate-Based Composite Used as Coatings for Biodegradable Magnesium Implants for Trauma

by Alexandru Streza, Aurora Antoniac, Veronica Manescu (Paltanea), Gheorghe Paltanea, Alina Robu, Horatiu Dura, Liliana Verestiuc, Enache Stanica, Stefan Ioan Voicu, Iulian Antoniac, Mihai Bogdan Cristea, Bogdan Radu Dragomir, Julietta V. Rau and Maria-Magdalena Manolea

Materials 2023, 16(2), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16020554 - 06 Jan 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1512

Abstract

Magnesium alloys are considered one of the most promising materials for biodegradable trauma implants because they promote bone healing and exhibit adequate mechanical strength during their biodegradation in relation to the bone healing process. Surface modification of biodegradable magnesium alloys is an important research field that is analyzed in many publications as the biodegradation due to the corrosion process and the interface with human tissue is improved. The aim of the current preliminary study is to develop a polymeric-based composite coating on biodegradable magnesium alloys by the solvent evaporation method to reduce the biodegradation rate much more than in the case of simple polymeric coatings by involving some bioactive filler in the form of particles consisting of hydroxyapatite and magnesium. Various techniques such as SEM coupled with EDS, FTIR, and RAMAN spectroscopy, and contact angle were used for the structural and morphological characterization of the coatings. In addition, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was used to study the effect of filler particles on polymer thermostability. In vitro cytotoxicity assays were performed on MG-63 cells (human osteosarcomas). The experimental analysis highlights the positive effect of magnesium and hydroxyapatite particles as filler for cellulose acetate when they are used alone from biocompatibility and surface analysis points of view, and it is not recommended to use both types of particles (hydroxyapatite and magnesium) as hybrid filling. In future studies focused on implantation testing, we will use only CA-based composite coatings with one filler on magnesium alloys because these composite coatings have shown better results from the in vitro testing point of view for future potential orthopedic biodegradable implants for trauma. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Research on Biocompatible Alloys)

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15 pages, 2353 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Alloy Design and Fabrication of Duplex Titanium-Based Alloys by Spark Plasma Sintering for Biomedical Implant Applications

by Muhammad Farzik Ijaz, Hamad F. Alharbi, Yassir A. Bahri and El-Sayed M. Sherif

Materials 2022, 15(23), 8562; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma15238562 - 01 Dec 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1384

Abstract

Very often, pure Ti and (α + β) Ti-6Al-4V alloys have been used commercially for implant applications, but ensuring their chemical, mechanical, and biological biocompatibility is always a serious concern for sustaining the long-term efficacy of implants. Therefore, there has always been a great quest to explore new biomedical alloying systems that can offer substantial beneficial effects in tailoring a balance between the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of implantable medical devices. With a view to the mechanical performance, this study focused on designing a Ti-15Zr-2Ta-xSn (where x = 4, 6, 8) alloying system with high strength and low Young’s modulus prepared by a powder metallurgy method. The experimental results showed that mechanical alloying, followed by spark plasma sintering, produced a fully consolidated (α + β) Ti-Zr-Ta-Sn-based alloy with a fine grain size and a relative density greater than 99%. Nevertheless, the shape, size, and distribution of α-phase precipitations were found to be sensitive to Sn contents. The addition of Sn also increased the α/β transus temperature of the alloy. For example, as the Sn content was increased from 4 wt.% to 8 wt.%, the β grains transformed into diverse morphological characteristics, namely, a thin-grain-boundary α phase (α_GB), lamellar α colonies, and acicular α_s precipitates and very low residual porosity during subsequent cooling after the spark plasma sintering procedure, which is consistent with the relative density results. Among the prepared alloys, Ti-15Zr-2Ta-8Sn exhibited the highest hardness (s340 HV), compressive yield strength (~1056 MPa), and maximum compressive strength (~1470). The formation of intriguing precipitate–matrix interfaces (α/β) acting as dislocation barriers is proposed to be the main reason for the high strength of the Ti-15Zr-2Ta-8Sn alloy. Finally, based on mechanical and structural properties, it is envisaged that our developed alloys will be promising for indwelling implant applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Research on Biocompatible Alloys)

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Review

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30 pages, 9001 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Comprehensive Review of the Current Research Status of Biodegradable Zinc Alloys and Composites for Biomedical Applications

by Lingyun Kong, Zahra Heydari, Ghadeer Hazim Lami, Abbas Saberi, Madalina Simona Baltatu and Petrica Vizureanu

Materials 2023, 16(13), 4797; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16134797 - 03 Jul 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3178

Abstract

Zinc (Zn)-based biodegradable materials show moderate degradation rates in comparison with other biodegradable materials (Fe and Mg). Biocompatibility and non-toxicity also make them a viable option for implant applications. Furthermore, Pure Zn has poor mechanical behavior, with a tensile strength of around 100–150 MPa and an elongation of 0.3–2%, which is far from reaching the strength required as an orthopedic implant material (tensile strength is more than 300 MPa, elongation more than 15%). Alloy and composite fabrication have proven to be excellent ways to improve the mechanical performance of Zn. Therefore, their alloys and composites have emerged as an innovative category of biodegradable materials. This paper summarizes the most important recent research results on the mechanical and biological characteristics of biodegradable Zn-based implants for orthopedic applications and the most commonly added components in Zn alloys and composites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Research on Biocompatible Alloys)

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