<ul><li>A new technique for enhancing the mechanical properties of zinc alloys could enable the development of biodegradable orthopaedic implants.</li><li>Implants made from sturdy materials like stainless steel or titanium can cause discomfort and bone loss, but biodegradable alternatives dissolve once bones have healed.</li><li>Zinc alloys are biocompatible and dissolve safely, but their mechanical strength is low, making them unsuitable for load-bearing implants.</li><li>By increasing the grain size in zinc alloys, researchers at Monash University have achieved a balance between strength and creep resistance, potentially leading to stronger zinc alloys for biodegradable implants.</li></ul>

Novel zinc alloys could make bone screws biodegradable

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