Enhancing Microstructural, Thermal, Mechanical, and Corrosion Response of a Bio/Eco‐Compatible Mg–2Zn–1Ca–0.3Mn Alloy Using Two Types of Cryogenic Treatments

Abstract

Biocompatible Mg–2Zn–1Ca–0.3Mn is synthesized using the disintegrated metal deposition process and subjected to two types of cryogenic treatments (refrigeration [RF] at −20 and −196 °C using liquid nitrogen) with a target to improve microstructural, thermal, mechanical, and electrochemical responses. The material exhibits densification and grain refinement after these treatments, which improves the physical, thermal, compressive, and corrosion responses. While both RF and liquid nitrogen exposures improve the overall combination of properties, overall improvement in properties is best met with RF treatment at −20 °C. In the results of this work, the efficacy of low energy option (RF) is convincingly established rather than liquid nitrogen exposure (as conventionally practiced) to enhance microstructure and properties.