Magnesium-based absorbable alloys

Abstract

A magnesium alloy contains a small amount of lithium, zinc, calcium, and manganese. For example, the magnesium alloy may include between 1-5 wt. % lithium, between 0.2-2.0 wt. % zinc, between 0.1-0.5 wt. % calcium, and between 0.1-0.8 wt. % manganese. These alloying elements are all nutrient elements, such that the present alloy can be safely broken down in vivo, then absorbed and/or expelled from the body. Li, Zn, Ca and Mn each contribute to solid-solution strengthening of the alloy. Ca also acts as a grain refiner, while Zn and Ca both form strengthening and corrosion-controlling intermetallic compounds. Optionally, the alloy may also include a small amount of yttrium for added strength and corrosion resistance.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.