Self-hardening of low-alloyed zinc for biodegradable application

Abstract Hot extruded wire of low-alloyed zinc (ZnMg0.05%Al0.007%) was subjected to groove-rolling at room temperature and next to lagering (aging at ambient temperature). It was found that the plastic flow in shear bands is the dominant deformation mechanism in tested alloy, which results in vanished work hardening and practically strain-independent mechanical properties of cold-rolled material. Following structural softening processes during lagering of as-rolled wire lead to receiving fine-grained material due to both recovery of the matrix and recrystallization within shear bands. Intensity of mentioned processes and final structure of the material depends on deformation value and determine the final combination of strength and plastic properties of the alloy. Experimental results can be considered in technological practice with respect to the application of low-alloyed zinc in manufacturing of biodegradable implants (stents).