Composition design and performance analysis of Zn–0.4Mg–nCa biodegradable alloys

The mechanical properties of Zn–0.4Mg binary alloys were improved by adding different mass fractions of Ca during the casting process. The microstructure, mechanical, electrochemical, and degradation properties of Zn–0.4Mg–nCa alloys were thoroughly investigated. The results demonstrate that the ternary alloys’ microstructure comprised matrix Zn and precipitated phases (Mg₂Zn₁₁ and CaZn₁₃). The grain size of the ternary alloys was gradually refined with increased Ca content, and the quantity and composition of eutectic phases were altered. The tensile strength of the Zn–0.4Mg–0.4Ca alloy reached 161.12 MPa. The immersion test demonstrated that when the Ca content increased, the corrosion rate of the Zn–0.4Mg–nCa alloys gradually increased. In addition, the alloys’ corrosion mechanisms in simulated body fluids were discussed.