Biodegradable Mg–Zn–Ca–Y Glass-Forming Alloy with an Amendment in Mechanical Properties and Corrosion Resistance

It is imperative to enhance the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of magnesium (Mg)-based metallic glasses for orthopedic implants to further their development. The addition of yttrium (Y) significantly improves both of these characteristics. The Mg_52.5Zn_40.5Ca₅Y₂ alloy was chosen for its optimal glass-forming capabilities, as evidenced by thermodynamic parameter, P_HHS. This alloy demonstrates remarkable enhancements in both mechanical and corrosion properties, despite the presence of a stable Mg₁₂YZn phase in the liquid, which precludes the complete formation of glass. The Mg_52.5Zn_40.5Ca₅Y₂ alloy exhibits a substantial increase in hardness, surpassing the Mg₆₆Zn₃₀Ca₄ metallic glass by up to 30 HV. The compressive strength of this alloy is 690 MPa, which is approximately 138 MPa greater than that of the Mg₆₆Zn₃₀Ca₄ alloy. The Mg_52.5Zn_40.5Ca₅Y₂ alloy exhibits a higher noble corrosion potential and a lower corrosion current density demonstrating a corrosion current density of 6.970 µA/cm² and a corrosion potential of − 1.240 V. These values suggest a significant increase in corrosion resistance when contrasted with the baseline alloy, Mg₆₆Zn₃₀Ca₄. The primary cause of this improvement in mechanical behavior and corrosion resistance is the formation of Mg₁₂YZn long-period stacking ordered (LPSO) phases and Mg₃YZn₆ icosahedral phases. The material’s overall strength and durability are enhanced by these phases, rendering it a promising candidate for applications that necessitate high performance in both mechanical and corrosive environments. As per the results, Mg_52.5Zn_40.5Ca₅Y₂ alloy is an exceptional choice for advanced material applications due to its distinctive phase composition, which results in superior properties.