Improvement of corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of rare-earth WE43 magnesium alloy by neodymium self-ion implantation

Without introducing extraneous elements, a small amount of Nd is introduced into rare-earth WE43 magnesium alloy by ion implantation. The surface composition, morphology, polarization, and electrochemical properties, as well as weight loss, pH, and leached ion concentrations after immersion, are systematically evaluated to determine the corrosion behavior. The cell adhesion and viability are also determined to evaluate the biological response in vitro. A relatively smooth and hydrophobic surface layer composed of mainly Nd2O and MgO is produced and degradation of WE43 is significantly retarded. Furthermore, significantly enhanced cell adhesion and excellent biocompatibility are observed after Nd self-ion implantation. (C)15 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.