Biodegradable Mg-Zn-Ca-based metallic glasses (MGs) present improved strength and superior corrosion resistance, compared to crystalline Mg. In particular, in vivo and in vitro attempts reveal that biodegradable Mg-Zn-Ca-based MGs possess excellent biocompatibility, suggesting that they are ideal candidates for temporary implant materials. However, the limited size and severe brittleness prevent their widespread commercialization. In this review, we firstly summarize the microstructure characteristic and mechanical properties of Mg-Zn-Ca-based MGs. Then, we provide a comprehensive and systematic understanding of the recent progress of the biocorrosion and biocompatibility of Mg-Zn-Ca-based MGs. Last, but not least, the outlook towards the fabrication routes, composition design, structure design, and reinforcement approaches of Mg-Zn-Ca-based MGs are briefly proposed.
Keywords: Mg–Zn–Ca; biodegradable; implant; metallic glass.