Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Behavior of Biodegradable Metals: Current Challenges

Abstract

Biodegradable metals have emerged as promising alternatives to permanent implants because they provide temporary mechanical support while gradually degrading after tissue healing, eliminating the need for removal surgery. Among the main biodegradable systems, Fe-, Mg-, and Zn-based alloys each offer unique advantages but also face important challenges related to the balance between mechanical performance, corrosion behavior, and biocompatibility. This review summarizes recent advances in the development of these materials, focusing on how alloy design, thermomechanical processing, porous architectures, surface engineering, and additive manufacturing influence their mechanical properties and degradation mechanisms. Special attention is given to the interplay between corrosion and mechanical integrity throughout the implant lifetime, as well as to current strategies for tailoring degradation rates to match tissue healing. Finally, the review discusses the remaining challenges, including the need for standardized testing, improved long-term in vivo validation, and the development of next-generation biodegradable metallic implants with optimized structural, biological, and functional performance.