The effect of Silver addition and deformation parameters on mechanostructure, biodegradation, antimicrobial and mechanical properties of Zn-based biodegradable alloys.

This article focuses on the development and characterization of zinc (Zn)-based biodegradable alloys alloyed with copper (Cu) and silver (Ag) for biomedical applications. The study investigates how varying Ag content (1–4 wt%) and rolling parameters affect the mechanical properties, biodegradability, microstructure, and antibacterial activity of Zn-1Cu-xAg alloys. Results show that increasing Ag concentration enhances hardness and compressive strength significantly, with Zn-1Cu-4Ag exhibiting a 128% hardness increase over pure Zn, while Zn-1Cu-2Ag demonstrated the highest antibacterial efficacy against E. coli and S. aureus. Additionally, rolling speed and friction coefficient influence rolling force, strength, and deformation power, with higher speeds and friction increasing these parameters. The findings suggest that Zn-Cu-Ag alloys combine strong mechanical performance and antibacterial properties, supporting their potential use as biodegradable materials in medical implants.