Microstructure and properties of biodegradable co-continuous (HA+β-TCP)/Zn–3Sn composite fabricated by vacuum casting-infiltration technique

Abstract

The co-continuous (HA+β-TCP)/Zn–3Sn composite was fabricated via vacuum casting-infiltration method. The microstructure, mechanical properties, corrosion behaviors, and hemolysis ratio of the composite were studied by scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffractometer, mechanical testing, electrochemical test, immersion test, and ultraviolet spectrophotometry. The results indicate that Zn–3Sn alloy infiltrated into porous HA+β-TCP scaffold, which resulted in the formation of a compact (HA+β-TCP)/Zn–3Sn co-continuous composite, without any reaction layer between the Zn–3Sn alloy and the HA+β-TCP scaffold. The compressive strength of the composite was equal to about 3/4 that of Zn–3Sn alloy bulk. The corrosion rate of composite in simulated body fluid solution was slightly higher than that of Zn–3Sn alloy bulk. The main corrosion product on the composite surface was Zn(OH)2. The hemolysis rate of the composite was lower than that of Zn–3Sn alloy bulk and exhibited superior blood compatibility.