Abstract
Solid solutions of Zn as an alloy element in Mg matrixes are expected to show improved corrosion resistance due to the electrode potential being positively shifted. In this study, a supersaturated solid solution of Mg-Zn alloy was achieved using mechanical alloying (MA) combined with laser sintering. In detail, supersaturated solid solution Mg-Zn powders were firstly prepared using MA, as it was able to break through the limit of phase diagram under the action of forced mechanical impact. Then, the alloyed Mg-Zn powders were shaped into parts using laser sintering, during which the limited liquid phase and short cooling time maintained the supersaturated solid solution. The Mg-Zn alloy derived from the as-milled powders for 30 h presented enhanced corrosion potential and consequently a reduced corrosion rate of 0.54 mm/year. Cell toxicity tests confirmed that the Mg-Zn solid solution possessed good cytocompatibility for potential clinical applications. This study offers a new strategy for fabricating Mg-Zn solid solutions using laser sintering with MA.