Biological evaluation of selective laser melted magnesium alloy powder

PURPOSE The current study examined magnesium alloy AZ31B specimens manufactured with Additive Manufacturing method (selective laser melting - SLM) to investigate the applicability of this technology for the production of medical devices. METHODS Osteoblast cells and bacterial biofilm growth ability on specimen was examined and the effect of surface state on corrosion resistance was evaluated by electrochemical and immersion methods. RESULTS High survival of hFOB cells, as well as a strong tendency for Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus biofilm proliferation on the surface of the tested specimens were shown. SLM-processed AZ31B alloy has a higher corrosion resistance in 0.9% NaCl solution and in a multi-electrolyte saline solution than the material in a conventional form of a rolled sheet. CONCLUSIONS It has been demonstrated that the strong development of the surface of as-built processed specimens results in a significantly increased corrosion rate, which hinders the production of complex structures in tissue engineering products that support cell ingrowth.