Degradable metallic biomaterials with controlled drug release

Metallic degradable biomaterials have been intensively studied recently, with emphasis on the understanding of the mechanisms of corrosion and its impact on mechanical and biological properties. Today, when many of these processes are known, it is possible to design new "tailor-made" biomaterials with specific composition and form. Besides, they can be further bioactivated to create complex medical devices that perform several functions simultaneously. The main goal of the presented project is to prepare and characterize a smart-biomaterial consisting of a metal matrix and bioactive coatings. The function of the prepared degradable biomaterial is to provide adequate mechanical support at the site of tissue damage and to prevent the development of bacterial infection after surgery by releasing drugs at the same time. During the duration of the project, the degradation mechanisms and processes related to the drug as well as the dissolution of the metal matrix and bioactive coatings itself will be studied. Moreover, the mechanical properties, in vitro, and in vivo biocompatibility of the prepared materials will be studied and evaluated.