Tribological and electrochemical corrosion behavior of binary Mg–3Zn novel hybrid composites for biodegradable implant applications

The present research work is focused on analyzing the tribological and corrosion impacts of introducing a new metal/bioceramic (Ti/HA) compound into the matrix of the Mg–3Zn alloy. The hybrid composites were developed using the squeeze casting method. The density, microhardness, and microstructure of the developed composite materials were examined. A pin-on-disk tribology meter was used to conduct the tribological study under a phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) lubricating medium. Studies on electrochemical corrosion were carried out in the PBS medium. Incorporating hybrid Ti/HA particles into the Mg–3Zn alloy matrix significantly increased the density and microhardness of the composites. Optical microscopy demonstrates a refined grain size and uniform distribution of reinforced particles, showcasing improved structural integrity. Scanning electron microscopy analysis further confirms the α-Mg and β-Mg–Zn phases. According to the findings of wear tests, the Ti/HA inclusion in the Mg–3Zn (MZ0) matrix increased the resistance to wear behavior. Abrasion, delamination, oxide layer formation, and severe delamination features were observed at the worn surfaces. Abrasive wear happened along with all other wear mechanisms and served as a wear initiator. Potentiodynamic polarization experiments revealed that the corrosion resistance of hybrid composites was increased with the inclusion of 1.5 % HA.