Biodegradable metals have gained attention in the past ten years due to specific biomedical uses that call for a high strength-to-bulk ratio. Iron, known for its favorable mechanical strength and biocompatibility, has gained attention as a potential biodegradable implant material, particularly in orthopedic and cardiovascular fields. However, its inherently slow degradation rate in physiological environments poses a significant limitation. To address this, the chapter details various fabrication techniques including powder metallurgy, additive manufacturing, casting, and electrochemical deposition, each offering control over porosity, microstructure, and overall mechanical performance. These processes are crucial in tailoring degradation behavior to meet clinical requirements. The use of alloying elements like manganese, silver, and palladium, as well as surface modification methods, is discussed as approaches to enhance degradation rates and biological responses. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between microstructural features and in vivo performance, underlining the need for precise material design. Additionally, the chapter discusses cytotoxicity concerns and the importance of ensuring safe degradation products. By integrating materials science, surface engineering, and biomedical perspectives, the chapter provides valuable insights into the design and optimization of next-generation biodegradable iron-based implants. It concludes with a discussion on current challenges, regulatory considerations, and future research directions toward clinical translation.
