Shafiq, Danyal  <br/><br/>
Design Optimization and Surface Modification of Biodegradable Magnesium Alloy AZ91 for Biomedical Implants Using Electrical Discharge Machining / 
Danyal Shafiq 
 - 105p.   Soft Copy  30cm 
<br/><br/> Magnesium alloy AZ91, known for its lightweight nature, biocompatibility, and controlled<br/>biodegradability, is a promising material for orthopedic implants. However, faster corrosion<br/>in a physiological environment remains a challenge. This work investigates Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) with copper and brass electrodes in a kerosene dielectric to optimize<br/>the surface roughness, hardness, and corrosion resistance of AZ91. Electrochemical deposition<br/>of copper and brass coatings was also performed to modulate the degradation rate. Surface assessment through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) indicated<br/>that optimizing EDM parameters greatly improved the surface quality, which was characterized<br/>by less roughness and higher hardness. Of the coatings, copper exhibited better corrosion resistance, which slowed down the degradation of AZ91 in simulated body fluid (SBF). Therefore,<br/>this combination of EDM with electrochemical deposition opens up the possibility of developing<br/>patient-specific implants with controlled degradation rates, which ensures mechanical support<br/>during healing and avoids follow-up surgeries. This work paves the way for next-generation<br/>bioresorbable implants, effectively providing a bespoke solution to orthopedic applications integrating precision machining and surface engineering techniques. 
<br/><br/><label>Subjects--Topical Terms: </label><br/>MS Mechanical Engineering      
<br/><br/><label>Dewey Class. No.: </label>621