Effect of Mechanical Frequency on the Tribocorrosive Performance of AZ91D Magnesium Alloy in Ringer's Solution

Magnesium alloys with biodegradable properties are being explored for potential use in orthopedic implants. However, the alloy used as an implant is subjected to a combined effect of wear and corrosion termed tribocorrosion. During various movements of the human body, the frequency of the implant at the interface undergoes changes, which affect the corrosion characteristics. This study substantiates the tribocorrosive properties of AZ91D magnesium alloy immersed in Ringer's solution. The investigation has been conducted under reciprocating motion at varying loads of 2 and 5 N and frequencies of 1 and 3 Hz. At a lower frequency, the formation of corrosive products stabilizes on the surface at a higher load of 5 N, thereby enhancing the corrosion resistance of the alloy. Conversely, at a higher test frequency of 3 Hz, the alloy has demonstrated increased corrosion resistance at a lower load of 2 N due to the rapid repassivation process and subsurface hardening of the alloy. The microstructural characteristics of the corroded surface and subsurface have been analyzed using scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy have been employed to identify the nature of the corrosive products formed.