Abstract
Zn alloys containing Fe element suffer from the detrimental effect of coarse FeZn13 or (Fe, Mn)Zn13 second phase in Zn matrix on mechanical properties, especially on ductility. The key reasons are the peritectic reaction of Fe and Zn at high temperatures and negligible solid solubility of Fe in Zn at low temperatures. Taking a recently developed biodegradable Zn–Mn–Fe alloy as the base alloy, it is revealed that minor additions of Y and Nd rare-earth elements can significantly refine (Fe, Mn)Zn13 phase. With a total addition of 0.14%, the average size of blocky (Fe, Mn)Zn13 particles reduces about 43%, while the average length of lath-like (Fe, Mn)Zn13 particles reduces about 50%. Sphere-like (Y, Nd)Zn12 particles serve as effective nucleating agents for (Fe, Mn)Zn13 and MnZn13 with nearly the same lattice parameters. As a result, yield strength, the ultimate tensile strength, and elongation to failure of the base alloy increase by 30 MPa, 27 MPa, and 6%, respectively. Cell viabilities of the alloys with or without rare-earth additions are all over 100%, indicating good biocompatibility.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
