Molybdenum - A biodegradable implant material for structural applications?

Molybdenum as a potentially new biodegradable material was investigated. Degradation behavior of commercially high purity molybdenum was observed in simulated physiological salt solutions (Kokubo's SBF with/without TRIS-HCl, Cu2+ addition and 0.9% NaCl solution). Potentiodynamic polarization, immersion mass loss and ion concentration measurements paired with REM/EDX analysis reveal gradual dissolution of molybdenum in the proper order of magnitude for stent application, associated with formation of thin, non-passivating corrosion products. The underlying corrosion mechanism is discussed as well as a comparison to literature data. However, formation of calcium phosphates (CaP) in SBF significantly decreases corrosion rates. In-situ polarization was found to be a potential way for overcoming this problem and simultaneously enhancing corrosion above the benchmark for a degradable stent material. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Biodegradable metals have the potential to overcome severe complications common to orthopedic and cardio-vascular implants. However, the need for a material with moderate and predictable degradation, high strength and toughness as well as MRI suitability must be satisfied. Molybdenum as potential new biodegradable material may just fulfill these requirements. An overall positive picture of molybdenum as an interesting alternative to recently discussed metallic biodegradable materials can be concluded from the herein presented results and from literature data, showing directions for future research on the topic.