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Corrosion Behavior of Biodegradable Mg-Zn-Ca Alloy under Simulated Severe Post-implantation Inflammatory Conditions
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Magnesium alloys are promising candidates for temporary implant materials due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to support tissue regeneration while gradually dissolving in physiological environments. However, the inflammatory environment near implants, characterized by the presence of reactive species and acidic conditions, can significantly influence their corrosion behavior. This study investigates the electrochemical corrosion performance of Mg-2.1wt% Zn-0.6wt% Ca alloy in three simulated physiological conditions: (1) normal medium (phosphate-buffered saline, pH 7), (2) inflammatory medium (PBS with H₂O₂ and HCl, pH 5), and (3) severe inflammatory medium (PBS with H₂O₂, HCl, bovine serum albumin [BSA], and lactic acid, pH 3).

Electrochemical tests, including potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, were employed to systematically evaluate the corrosion rates and underlying mechanisms of the alloy in the three simulated media. The results demonstrated that the presence of H₂O₂ and an acidic pH significantly accelerated the corrosion rate of the Mg-Zn-Ca alloy, owing to the oxidative stress induced by H₂O₂, which promoted the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that destabilized the magnesium hydroxide protective layer. The acidic pH further exacerbated the corrosion by dissolving the passivating Mg(OH)₂ layer, exposing fresh magnesium to the corrosive medium.

In addition, the inclusion of BSA and lactic acid in the severe inflammatory medium amplified the corrosion process. BSA, a protein that simulates the role of extracellular proteins, binds to the alloy surface and alters the local electrochemical environment by forming complexes with magnesium ions. This chelation effect destabilizes the surface and promotes ion release. Similarly, lactic acid, a byproduct of cellular metabolism during inflammation, acts as a weak organic acid that enhances the dissolution of magnesium hydroxide through acidification and ion chelation mechanisms. Together, BSA and lactic acid simulate conditions that reflect the inflammatory response and metabolic activity near implants, highlighting their synergistic impact on accelerating corrosion.

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Optimization of Zn-Ni Alloy coating to enhance corrosion resistance of carbon steel
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Zn-Ni alloys have gained considerable attention due to their superior ability to resist corrosion. Zn-Ni electroplating can be improved by optimizing the nickel composition in Zn-Ni alloys, which provides better protection compared to Zinc deposited alone; it can also be improved by incorporating additives into the plating bath. The aim of our research was to optimize our electroplating bath by adding an eco-friendly additive to enhance the characteristics of the deposits obtained, particularly their morphology after electrodeposition, and their resistance against corrosion, using different concentrations of this additive (0g/l, 0.25g/l, 0.5 g/l, 1g/l and 2g/l). Several deposits were made for this purpose and their properties were investigated. We used scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to examine the deposits' surface morphology, while energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) was used to assess the chemical composition of the deposits. Electrochemical methods, polarization measurement (PDP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), were used to investigate the corrosion resistance of every deposition in an ASTM D1384-87 medium. The results show that the incorporation of the eco-friendly additive into the electroplating bath significantly improves both the morphology and corrosion resistance of Zn-Ni coatings. Compared to all the deposits produced in this study, the optimum concentration is 1g/l of the additive, which produced the most corrosion-resistant Zn-Ni alloy deposit.

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Phase equilibrium of Ti-Pt-Nb high-temperature shape memory alloys studied using cluster expansion techniques

The effect of adding Nb on TiPt high-temperature shape memory alloys (HTSMAs) was investigated using the universal cluster expansion and first-principle approach. In this study, cluster expansion was utilized to predict ground state structures containing three (3) elements: Ti, Pt, and Nb. The cluster expansion method generated 45 new Ti-Pt-Nb structures, and these were ranked as stable and meta-stable structures based on their formation energies. Among the six (6) predicted structures, the Ti4Nb2Pt2 system was selected around 50:50 on Platinum (Pt)-rich sites since it is the most stable structure on the ground state line. The supercell approach in MedeA (VASP) was used to create large supercells of about 64 atoms. In addition, the Ti4Nb2Pt2 system was studied further by determining the structural, thermodynamic and mechanical properties using the first-principle density functional theory. The Ti4Nb2Pt2 system was found to be the most thermodynamically stable structure due to its negative heat of formation (-0.361 eV/atom). The materials have similar properties as tetragonal Nb-doped TiPt. The mechanical properties of these compounds revealed that they are ductile in nature and mechanically stable. Furthermore, the phonon dispersion curves showed the vibrational stability of the Ti4Nb2Pt2 alloy due to the absence of soft modes. This work suggests that introducing Nb stabilizes the TiPt SMAs, making them potential candidates for high-temperature applications.

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Development of Mg-1Zn-1Ca-xZnO (x = 0 and 2 wt.%) composite using disintegrated melt deposition method for biomedical applications
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Magnesium (Mg)-based biodegradable materials have become prominent for use in temporary implant applications. In the present work, the Mg-1Zn-1Ca-xZnO (x = 0 and 2 wt. %) alloy and composite were synthesized using a disintegrated melt deposition (DMD) technique followed by a hot extrusion process, and their microstructure, thermal, and mechanical properties were studied. The average grain size for the Mg-1Zn-1Ca alloy and the Mg-1Zn-1Ca-2ZnO composite obtained is 7.0 µm and 6.3 µm, respectively. The XRD analysis depicted that 10-11 pyramidal planes are dominant, and Mg2Ca, Mg2Ca and MgZn phases are formed in the Mg-1Zn-1Ca alloy and the Mg-1Zn-1Ca-2ZnO composite. The modulus of elasticity increased by 3.30 % and the ignition temperature increased by 3.11 % with the addition of 2 wt. % ZnO nanoparticles in the Mg-1Zn-1Ca alloy. The Vickers hardness value increased by 1.70 % while the yield strength increased by 13.77 % after the addition of ZnO nanoparticles (150.3 MPa and 171.0 MPa, respectively, for the monolithic Mg-1Zn-1Ca alloy and Mg-1Zn-1Ca-2ZnO composite materials, both of which exceed the yield strength of natural bone at 60 - 90 MPa). The results demonstrate the efficacy of ZnO nanoparticles for use in biomedical applications with good mechanical properties.

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Numerical simulation of galvanic corrosion of a tube-fitting steel assembly in a chloride environment

Galvanic corrosion is a complex and significant issue that affects metal structures across various industrial environments, especially in the presence of chloride solutions. In this study, we investigate the galvanic corrosion behavior of a steel tube assembly exposed to a chloride solution using advanced numerical simulation software. By leveraging multiphysics modeling techniques, we developed a comprehensive numerical model that integrates the electrochemical processes involved in galvanic corrosion. This model considers the electrochemical properties of the materials comprising the assembly and the environmental conditions, such as chloride solution concentration and conductivity.

Our study focuses on key parameters including corrosion rate, corrosion potential, and the distribution of damage within the assembly. The simulation results reveal critical insights into the mechanisms governing galvanic corrosion, offering a deeper understanding of how these factors contribute to the degradation of metal structures in chloride-rich environments. Additionally, our findings enable the prediction of the long-term behavior and performance of such assemblies under corrosive conditions.

This numerical approach presents a cost-effective and efficient alternative to traditional experimental methods, facilitating the evaluation and optimization of corrosion protection strategies. By reducing reliance on extensive physical testing, our model supports the design and implementation of more effective corrosion mitigation measures, ultimately extending the lifespan and reliability of metal structures in challenging environments.

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A review on perovskite magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) used in magnetic hyperthermia (HT)

Magnetic hyperthermia (MHT) has emerged as an innovative cancer treatment modality that involves the generation of heat by exposing magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) to an alternating magnetic field (AMF). This approach has attracted considerable attention due to its ability to locally elevate the temperature of tumor tissues in a non-invasive manner. MHT can be used either as a standalone treatment or in combination with other therapeutic strategies, such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy, enhancing the overall therapeutic outcome. Among the various magnetic materials available for hyperthermia applications, perovskites stand out due to their unique crystalline structure and versatile electronic and magnetic properties. These characteristics make perovskites promising candidates for developing highly efficient MNPs that can be fine-tuned to optimize heat generation under an AMF.

This review focuses on the magnetic properties of perovskite-based nanoparticles and their potential for use in MHT. The article discusses several perovskites that have been explored for hyperthermic applications, examining their structural, magnetic, and thermal properties. Additionally, the synthesis methods employed for fabricating perovskite-based MNPs are thoroughly reviewed. Despite the promising potential, challenges remain in harnessing the full capability of perovskites in MHT, including issues related to stability, biocompatibility, and scalability. These limitations are also addressed in this review, and future directions are proposed, ensuring the widespread adoption of perovskites as efficient and reliable MNPs for magnetic hyperthermia in clinical settings.

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Laser marking of stainless steel and aluminum

The marking of components using laser technology is a permanent process that utilizes a beam to create a mark, or even engrave, on the surface of a component. Based on the potential for a high marking quality, this process is increasingly employed across various industries (semiconductors, electronics, medical, automotive, aerospace, etc.) for engraving serial numbers, logos, barcodes, QR codes, and more. Several laser processing parameters influence the marking quality as well as penetration. Depending on the component and material involved, these parameters must be adjusted to determine the optimal settings for each component/material. This study investigates the influence of laser beam parameters on marking quality to achieve the best set of laser marking conditions for different metals. A 30 W fiber laser was utilized, and the parametric study focused on power, frequency, marking speed, and the number of passes. The materials studied included aluminum alloy AW-6082-T6 and stainless steel 304 2B. The results demonstrate that the markings varied in color and quality, and it was possible to identify the optimal parameter sets for each material to ensure the best marking quality, even at high marking speeds. Overall, the marking strategy also influenced the marking quality, including the presence or absence of contours and the fill method used. This investigation also identified the degradation mechanisms associated with each material and how to mitigate undesirable effects, ensuring that the markings comply with industrial standards.

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Optimization of Laser Powder Bed Fusion Parameters for Scalmalloy: Enhancing Print Quality and Mechanical Performance for Space Electronic Packaging
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Scalmalloy, an aluminum–magnesium–scandium alloy, is renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and high ductility, making it a prime candidate for aerospace and space applications. This study focuses on optimizing the Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) process parameters to enhance the print quality and mechanical properties of Scalmalloy components tailored for space electronic packaging applications where precise complex wall geometries and shape stability are crucial.

Employing Design of Experiments methodologies, we systematically varied key process parameters, including layer height, laser power, scanning speed, and hatch spacing. Standardized cubic specimens were fabricated across a range of energy densities to establish correlations between process parameters, porosity levels, and mechanical strength. Comprehensive analyses were conducted to evaluate the performance of these specimens. Our findings indicate that an optimal energy density window of 90 to 125 J∙mm⁻³ minimizes porosity while maximizing mechanical performance.

Utilizing these optimized parameters, we designed and developed prototype components intended for space applications, emphasizing lightweight structures, thermal stability, and structural integrity. The results demonstrate that precise control of L-PBF parameters facilitates the production of Scalmalloy parts with superior mechanical properties and minimal defects, aligning with the stringent requirements of space applications. This research underscores the significance of parameter optimization in additive manufacturing to achieve resource-efficient production of high-performance metallic components.

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Creation of thin TiNi wires with stabilized martensite phase

TiNi-based alloys have a unique set of functional and structural properties, which allows them to be used as materials for creating implants. Thin TiNi threads were obtained by drawing with intermediate chemical and mechanical treatments. Thinning the threads to 40-60 μm made it possible to manufacture textile implants for use in soft tissues of the human body. However, the Young's modulus (E) of metallic TiNi-based materials can exceed that of soft connective tissues. Cryogenic treatment can reduce the elastic modulus by stabilizing the martensite phase and thereby reducing the rigidity of the material. This approach is novel and helps solve a fundamental problem in medical materials science.

Thin TiNi wires were obtained through the traditional technique and cryogen treatment. X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy allowed for determination of the structure and phase composition of thin wires with a composite structure based on TiNi(B2), TiNi3, TiC, and TiO2 phases. It was shown that the cryogenic treatment of thin TiNi wire resulted in the formation of two phases B2+B19 in the structure, which indicated martensite stabilization after cooling. The porosity of the obtained implants was 80 to 85%. SEM images of the structure of spherical implants after biointegration show the high integration tie between these implants and animal tissues. The high integration tie was observed between body tissues both inside and on the surface of the spherical implant.

This research was financially supported by Grant No. 24-29-00735 from the Russian Science Foundation.

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The Directional Solidification of Al-Zn Alloys as a function of the Level of Convective Heat Transfer
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In this study, an analysis of the directional solidification of Al-Zn alloys using a Brigdman-type rotary directional solidification device is presented. For this purpose, the device can be rotated at three tilt angles (0°, 90°, and 180°). Directional solidification tests were performed with Al and Zn (commercial grade) and with Al-5%Zn and Al-10%Zn alloys (weight percent). The aim is to analyze how the furnace inclination (which generates different levels of convective heat transfer in the solidifying specimen) and the alloy composition influence the cooling rate of the metallic solid, the thermal gradients, and the size of the macrostructure and microstructure present. It has been observed that by varying the furnace inclination angles, for the same composition, the cooling rate tends to decrease; it is also important to highlight that the minimum temperature gradients coincide with the position of the CET. For commercial purity Al, average cooling rates of 2.21 °C/s at 90°, 2.05 °C/s at 45°, and 1.98 °C/s at 0° were obtained for each of the tests. For the Al-10wt. %Zn alloy, average cooling rates of 2.43 °C/s at 90°, 2.14 °C/s at 45°, and 1.99 °C/s at 0° are obtained, with a clear decrease in the cooling rate as the furnace tilt angle is varied. Similarly, when the CET occurs, the critical gradient value is -0.5 ºC/cm for Al, 0.1 ºC/cm for Zn, 1.4 ºC/cm for Al-5wt. %Zn, and -1.2 ºC/cm for Al-10wt. %Zn. On the other hand, when analyzing the behavior of Zn, it can be highlighted that the cooling rate values decrease significantly when compared with Al (both commercial grades) and with the Al-5wt. %Zn and Al-10wt. %Zn alloys. These data indicate that the alloy composition and the inclination of the solidification device influence the cooling rate and the thermal gradients.

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