Influence of Sc on the microstructure, degradation behavior, biocompatibility in vitro and mechanical property of Mg-2Zn-0.2Zr alloy

•Design degradable Mg-2Zn-0.2Zr-xSc (ZK-xSc, x = 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, wt.%) alloys as potential implants.•Investigate the effect of alloying element (Sc) on microstructure, degradation behavior and mechanical property of as-extruded ZK alloy.•The addition of Sc in ZK alloy decreases the degradation rate and improves the ultimate tensile strength.•Provide a better understanding on Sc as alloying elements for biomedical Mg alloys with superior mechanical property, slower degradation rate and good biocompatibility.