Controlled degradation of a magnesium alloy in simulated body fluid using hydrofluoric acid treatment followed by polyacrylonitrile coating

This paper describes the protection mechanism of polyacrylonitrile coatings on a hydrofluoric acid treated magnesium alloy. The protective performance of the adopted methodology was investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and immersion tests in 3.5 wt.% NaCl and in simulated body fluid (SBF). It was observed that interfacial reactions and interactions between polymer and substrate rendered long-term protection for the metal. A detailed characterization of the coating properties and of the interfacial processes is provided and the potential of the adopted methodology for biomedical application is discussed. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.