Work

Enhanced Antimicrobial and Biomedical Properties of Fe-Based Bulk Metallic Glasses Through Ag Addition

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study explores the enhancement of antimicrobial and biomedical properties in Fe-based bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) through the addition of Ag. Fe55-xCr20Mo5P13C7Agx (x = 0, 1, 2, 3 at.%) master alloy ingots were synthesized by the induction melting technique and industrial-grade raw materials, the master alloy ingots were prepared as bulk metallic glasses (referred to as Ag0, Ag1, Ag2, and Ag3) by the water-cooled copper-mold suction casting technique, and their glass-forming ability, corrosion resistance, biocompatibility, and antimicrobial properties were systematically investigated. The results indicate that the glass forming ability (GFA) decreased with increasing Ag content, reducing the critical diameter for fully amorphous formation from 2.0 mm for Ag0 to 1.0 mm for Ag3. Electrochemical tests in Hank’s solution revealed the superior corrosion resistance of the Fe-based BMGs as compared with conventional 316 L stainless steel (316L SS) and Ti6Al4V alloy (TC4), with Ag3 demonstrating the lowest corrosion current density and the most stable passivation. Biocompatibility assessments, including fibroblast cell viability and adhesion tests, showed enhanced cellular activity and morphology on Fe-based BMG surfaces as compared with 316L SS and TC4, with minimal harmful ion release. Antimicrobial tests against E. coli and S. aureus revealed significantly improved performance with the Ag addition, achieving bacterial inhibition rates of up to 87.5% and 86.7%, respectively, attributed to Ag+-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. With their excellent corrosion resistance, biocompatibility, and antimicrobial activity, the present Ag-containing Fe-based BMGs, particularly Ag3, are promising candidates for next-generation biomedical implants.

Source: Inorganics

DOI: 10.3390/inorganics13040105

Authors: Long Jiang, Xueru Fan, Qiang Li, Xin Li, Tao Jiang, Qin Wei

Institutions: Xinjiang University, Xinjiang Medical University

Language: English

Topic: Metallic Glasses and Amorphous Alloys

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,654