Development of novel hybrid PEO-PLA coating on biodegradable ZK60 magnesium alloys
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This study presents the development of novel hybrid coatings composed of plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA) on biodegradable ZK60 magnesium alloy. PEO coatings were fabricated using phosphate-based electrolytes under optimized parameters (0.4 A/cm 2 , 50 Hz, 50% duty cycle) and treatment durations of up to 2 min, resulting in porous ceramic layers approximately 70 µm thick, primarily composed of MgO and Mg 3 (PO 4 ) 2 . Subsequent dip-coating with PLA (5 g in 55 mL dichloromethane) effectively sealed the PEO pores, forming a uniform polymer layer approximately 23 µm thick. Corrosion tests demonstrated that the hybrid PEO + PLA coating substantially improved corrosion resistance. The sample treated with a 2-minute PEO process followed by PLA coating exhibited a polarization resistance (R p ) approximately 246 times higher than that of untreated ZK60 after 168 h, and it maintained significant protection after 13 weeks of immersion (R p ≈ 6.1 × 10 4 Ω·cm 2 ). Molecular dynamics simulations supported the strong adsorption of PLA on the MgO surface, correlating with improved sealing performance. Overall, this work demonstrates that PEO/PLA duplex coatings markedly enhance the corrosion resistance and mechanical stability of biodegradable ZK60 magnesium alloy, making them highly promising for use in bioabsorbable medical implants.
Source: Materials & Design
Language: English
Subfield: Biomaterials
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,650
OpenAlex ID: W7128962473