Enhanced Biocompatibility and Corrosion Control in Mg Alloy AZ31B through PMEDM

Permanent and temporary applications of implants is crucial in the biomedical implant industry, driven by varying bone healing rates in children and adults, leading to divergent implant lifespans. Biodegradable implants exhibit compatibility with Magnesium alloys, but managing degradation and corrosion poses challenges, especially in determining suitable Mg alloy dosages for both age groups. To tackle these issues, a modified EDM process, termed PM-EDM, has been adopted. This adaptation not only enhances the procedure’s overall efficacy but also elevates the quality of machined surfaces. The primary objective of this research work is to develop a process or formula to regulate Magnesium alloy degradation and corrosion rates using the PM-EDM technique that helps in powder deposition or coating on the surface of the substrate at the time of machining itself. PM-EDM operations and input configurations, results in distinct corrosion rates on machined surfaces and can be used for in-vitro testing during experiments. Peak Current (I_p), Pulse on Time (T_on), and Pulse off Time (T_off) are critical for surface modifications; findings show Zinc powder, especially at 10 g/l, affects corrosion.