Tunable Biomedical Device Degradation Via Controllable ALD Coatings
Faculty Mentor Information
Dr. Corey Efaw (Mentor), Boise State University; Dr. Paul Davis (Mentor), Boise State University; Dr. Mike Hurley (Mentor), Boise State University; and Dr. Elton Graugnard (Mentor), Boise State University
Abstract
Magnesium is widely used in various applications (e.g., aerospace and automotive industries, etc.) due to its exceptional mechanical properties, such as a high strength-to-weight ratio. However, when exposed to harsh environments, magnesium alloys experience a higher corrosion rate than most metals. This could be beneficial for some applications, such as in the biomedical field. When in contact with body fluids, magnesium’s corrosion allows the process of bioresorption. Compared to other metals, such as titanium and stainless steel, magnesium enhances performance when used for a wide range of medical implants, which makes it attractive for this application. One challenge to be addressed is corrosion rates; too high may be detrimental to the functionality and lifetime of implants, while too low can cause dysplasia or osteoporosis. An alternative to combat this challenge is by applying biocompatible coatings via atomic layer deposition (ALD) on the magnesium alloy with the goal of preserving its mechanical properties, allowing bioresorption at the end of its lifetime, and improving predictable implant lifetimes. ALD is an advanced coating technology that provides precise thickness and substrate conformality, making it ideal for this application. Various atomic force microscopy techniques were utilized to examine material properties of various coating thicknesses.
Tunable Biomedical Device Degradation Via Controllable ALD Coatings
Magnesium is widely used in various applications (e.g., aerospace and automotive industries, etc.) due to its exceptional mechanical properties, such as a high strength-to-weight ratio. However, when exposed to harsh environments, magnesium alloys experience a higher corrosion rate than most metals. This could be beneficial for some applications, such as in the biomedical field. When in contact with body fluids, magnesium’s corrosion allows the process of bioresorption. Compared to other metals, such as titanium and stainless steel, magnesium enhances performance when used for a wide range of medical implants, which makes it attractive for this application. One challenge to be addressed is corrosion rates; too high may be detrimental to the functionality and lifetime of implants, while too low can cause dysplasia or osteoporosis. An alternative to combat this challenge is by applying biocompatible coatings via atomic layer deposition (ALD) on the magnesium alloy with the goal of preserving its mechanical properties, allowing bioresorption at the end of its lifetime, and improving predictable implant lifetimes. ALD is an advanced coating technology that provides precise thickness and substrate conformality, making it ideal for this application. Various atomic force microscopy techniques were utilized to examine material properties of various coating thicknesses.