Engineering Corrosion Resistance in Magnesium Alloys for Biomedical Applications: A Synergy of Zn/Ca Atomic Ratio and Texture-Based Approach

Magnesium (Mg) and Magnesium-Zinc-Calcium alloys present a compelling option for biodegradable implant materials. Utilizing Vacuum Induction Casting, Mg–2.5Zn-xCa (with x = 0.3, 0.5, 0.9, 1.15 wt%) alloys were fabricated and subjected to hot-rolling for thermo-mechanical processing. The hot-rolled Mg–2.5Zn-0.3Ca alloy exhibits the lowest corrosion rate along with the highest basal texture. Increasing the Zn/Ca atomic ratio intensifies the basal texture and enhances corrosion resistance. Elevated Zn concentration improves corrosion resistance via Ca2Mg6Zn3 phase formation, while increased Ca content diminishes corrosion resistance due to the Mg2Ca phase. Advancement of this alloy is poised to extend Mg alloy use in innovative biomedical bone implants.