Carbon Characterization In MIM Degradable Mg-0.6Ca Alloy Using Electron Microscopy And Raman Spectroscopy Techniques

Carbon (C) residuals at specific microstructural features are detected in a correlative way in the metal injection molded (MIM) Mg-0.6Ca material. Micro Raman mappings revealed Raman modes at nearly 1370 cm-1 and 1560 cm-1 that can be ascribed to elemental C, and C-C stretching at 1865 cm-1. The MIM Mg feedstock contained PPcoPE based backbone polymer that dissociates during thermal debinding (380 °C - 550 °C) prior to argon atmosphere sintering (644 °C). The decomposition of MgC2 and Mg2C3 carbides at 450 °C and 600 °C respectively, releases free C that can be trapped in the Mg matrix. The presence of calcium (Ca) leads to the formation of CaC2 phases during sintering that retains in the microstructure. Energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) analysis revealed the SiO2 impurities adjacent to the C, Ca and oxide detections. These findings can provide insights about the cell adhesion characteristics of PM Mg materials.