Magnesium (Mg) and its alloys possess ideal characteristics in mecha­nical properties and biological acceptance, and thus are of great promise for deployment as implant material, particularly in surgical stabi­lisation of bone fractures. The relatively fast degradation ability avoids second surgeries for removal of the implant. Essential for their applicability is a sufficient load baring capacity for a clinically relevant time frame, which is directly linked to a reliable degradation rate and good bone ingrowth. , The purpose of this study was therefore to (1) analyse the general applicability of Mg-based screws for their use in cortical bone (2) study whether an improved degradation and therefore biomechanical performance can be achieved by chemical surface treatment.