Surgeons routinely use stainless steel or titanium, which stays in the body forever, can cause discomfort and may require follow-up surgeries. A new zinc alloy, designed by Monash biomedical engineers, could solve these problems by being mechanically strong but gentle enough to degrade safely over time while supporting optimal healing.

A study published today in Nature shows the research team’s innovative approach to making the zinc alloy as strong as permanent steel implants and more durable than other biodegradable options like magnesium-based implants.

Lead researcher, Professor Jian-feng Nie, from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, said the innovative material had the potential to transform orthopedic care by reducing complications, minimizing the need for additional surgeries, and offering a sustainable alternative to permanent metallic implants.