Surface Modifications of the Mg Alloy by Self-Assembled Monolayers of Fatty Acids

As biocompatible, osteoconductive, and degradable materials magnesium and its alloys are promising candidates for temporary implants. The main limitation of their use in the clinical application is the fast degradation in physiological environments. Several possibilities exist to tailor the degradation rate of magnesium by using alloying elements and protective coatings. In the present study the native and anodically formed oxide films on the Mg alloy (AZ91D) were modified with the self assembling monolayers (SAMs) of a long chain carboxylic acid to protect the alloy degradation in a physiological solution. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and voltammetry methods were used to examine the surface layers; their structural properties and corrosion resistance in the Hanks' solution.