Biomedical potential of a zirconium-based bulk metallic glass

Due to their unique mechanical properties, bulk metallic glasses (BMG) have potential for biomedical applications. Biocompatibility and corrosion tests of a zirconium-based BMG showed comparable behavior to current implant alloys. Mechanical properties, such as an elastic limit of 2% and a yield strength of 1700 MPa, are significantly higher than current implant alloys. In addition, it was found that medical MRI images of BMG, possibly due to the amorphous structure, are significantly better than other alloys even though the reference alloy contains 14.6 at.% Ni. Nickel-free compositions also retained similar glass forming characteristics and showed even better MRI images. Edge holding for cutting tool applications was demonstrated. Fatigue tests were performed in simulated body conditions and directly compared to Ti-6 Al-4 V. While one specimen failed at more than 3,000,000 cycles at 500 MPa, there was much scatter in the data. Further concentration on processing issues to produce pore free material is needed to produce reliable material for prototype development. Potential uses, especially associated with an interventional MRI for MRI guided surgeries, will be discussed.