Mathematical models for the corrosion of magnesium and its alloys

Biodegradable materials have been extensively studied in recent years due to their potential to revolutionise the use of orthopaedic implants. In this context, one of the most promising candidates for a biomaterial is magnesium. When designing bioimplants, it is crucial to achieve the required mechanical properties while keeping the degradation rate at very low levels. In order to aid in the design of bioimplants, mathematical models for the degradation of magnesium have been developed. I will describe current approach to the modelling, presented by Gastaldi, et al. (Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials, 2011) and Grogan, et al. (Acta Biomaterialia, 2011) basing on the continuum damage theory. I will then describe a model we have recently developed which uses the level-set method and a system of partial differential equations to represent the chemical processes occurring at the interface between the implant and the biological medium.