Effects of Ca on microstructure, mechanical and corrosion properties and biocompatibility of Mg–Zn–Ca alloys

Zn and Ca were selected as alloying elements to develop an Mg–Zn–Ca alloy system for biomedical application due to their good biocompatibility. The effects of Ca on the microstructure, mechanical and corrosion properties as well as the biocompatibility of the as-cast Mg–Zn–Ca alloys were studied. Results indicate that the microstructure of Mg–Zn–Ca alloys typically consists of primary α-Mg matrix and Ca2Mg6Zn3/Mg2Ca intermetallic phase mainly distributed along grain boundary. The yield strength of Mg–Zn–Ca alloy increased slightly with the increase of Ca content, whilst its tensile strength increased at first and then decreased. Corrosion tests in the simulated body fluid revealed that the addition of Ca is detrimental to corrosion resistance due to the micro-galvanic corrosion acceleration. In vitro hemolysis and cytotoxicity assessment disclose that Mg–5Zn–1.0Ca alloy has suitable biocompatibility.