Microstructural analysis and mechanical properties of biodegradable Mg-1.3Ca-5.5Zr alloy

Magnesium based alloys begin to be known as biodegradable materials used in medical field. Zirconium and Calcium as alloying elements, improve mechanical strength, creep resistance and refine microstructure. Also, Ca is the most spread mineral in the human body, which contributes to the osteosynthesis phenomenon. The aim of this paper is developing two original Mg-Zr-Ca biodegradable alloys, characterizing from the point of view of the microstructure, X-ray diffraction, Young modulus and scratch test. Results show evenly distributed clusters of zirconium and Mg₂Ca arranged at Mg grains boundary. Also, values of Young modulus are between 25-27 GPa similar to bones Young modulus, thus avoiding the formation of "stress shield effect". (paper)