Microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg-Y-Nd-Zr alloys for biomedical materials

4 types of Mg-Y-Nd-Zr alloys with different mass-fractions of Nd were prepared in 316L stainless steel crucible of resistance furnace under the protection of solvent RJ-2.X-ray diffraction、electron probe micro-analysis,tensile tests,and scanning electron microscopy were carried out to investigate the microstructures and mechanical properties of these alloys.The result showed that the Mg-Y-Zr alloy consisted mainly of α-Mg and Mg24Y5,and it would generate a new Mg12Nd strengthening phases after addition of Nd element.The fractured section of Mg-Y-Nd-Zr alloys exhibited mixed character such as quasi-cleavage and ductile fracture and its microstructure changed with the mass-fractions of added Nd,resulting in changes in mechanical properties of the alloys,the modulus of elasticity was between 25.8 GPa and 35.8 GPa,which was close to that of human bone,indicating that these alloys could satisfy the requirement of biomechanical compatibility necessary for medical instrument and biodegradable materials in cardiac interventional therapy.