Mechanical properties and biodegradable behavior of Mg-6 %Zn-Ca3(PO4)2 metal matrix composites in Ringer's solution

The purpose of this study is to investigate the mechanical properties of Mg-6 %Zn-Ca-3(PO4)(2) composite and evaluate its biodegradable behavior in Ringer's solution. The Mg-6 %Zn alloy with 5%, 10% and 15% addition of Ca-3(PO4)(2) as reinforcements are produced through a powder-metallurgy sinter method and their corrosion properties are tested. The results show that the mechanical properties of the Mg-6 %Zn-Ca-3(PO4)(2) composites are adjustable by the addition and particle distributions of Ca-3(PO4)(2). The Mg-6 %Zn-5 %similar to 10 %Ca-3(PO4)(2) composites obtain properties including density. Young's modulus, and strength similar to natural bone. The Mg matrix, Mg7Zn3 phase, and Ca-3(PO4)(2) are identified in the experimental composite. Immersion and electrochemical corrosion tests reveal that 5% and 10% addition of Ca-3(PO4)(2) particles in the Mg-6 %Zn alloy exhibit acceptable corrosion resistance in Ringer's solution.