Mechanical Strength and Surface Roughness of Magnesium-Based Metallic Glasses

This work evaluated the mechanical strength and surface roughness of MgZn₃₀Ca₅ ribbon manufactured via a melt spinning technique for applications in the biomedical field. Annealing was performed at 280°C. The inner side (in contact with the wheel) and the outer side (not in contact with the wheel) of the ribbons were mechanically evaluated using nanoindentation, and its surfaces were analyzed by an optical profilometer. Differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses were also performed to identify the structure and devitrification of the magnesium metallic glass (MgMG). The nanohardness and elastic modulus increased after annealing (p < 0.0001). No differences were seen in the strength between the two sides of the ribbons (p > 0.05). Although both sides of the ribbons showed different surface profiles (p < 0.0001), no statistical difference was detected in roughness parameters on either ribbon side before (p = 0.3094) and after (p = 0.8742) annealing. DSC curves showed disturbances in enthalpy attributed to a relaxation in the MgMG structure and free volume annihilation. The DRX diffractogram showed sharp peaks after annealing, with MgZn and Ca₂Mg₅Zn₁₃ phases being identified. Although the use of MgMG in biomedical applications is promising, the ribbons displayed limited ductility, toughness, and a relevant embrittlement after the annealing procedure. There were significant changes in the surface profile of both sides of the ribbons. Nevertheless, neither annealing nor the ribbon side had influenced surface roughness parameters.