Mohammad Taufiq Al Hakim Bahrudin, Nor Amira Syairah Zulkarnaini, Kar Fei Chan, Mokhamad Fakhrul Ulum, Hadi Nur, Abdul Hakim Md Yusop
Magnesium (Mg) is known for its exceptional biodegradability compared to other biodegradable metals such as iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn). However, its low mechanical strength and rapid corrosion rate hinder its use in bone scaffold implants. This study explores the mechanical and structural properties of Mg metal matrix composites (MMCs) reinforced with varying Fe content (1 wt%, 5 wt%, 10 wt%, and 15 wt%) and a fixed 5 wt% of hydroxyapatite (HA). Microstructural analyses, physicochemical characterizations, and mechanical evaluations—including compression and hardness tests—were conducted. The addition of Fe and HA modified the crystallographic structure of Mg, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The composite with 10 wt% Fe exhibited the highest compressive strength of 260.88 MPa, attributed to optimal Fe dispersion that enhanced load-bearing capability and structural cohesion. In contrast, the composite with 15 wt% Fe showed slightly reduced compressive strength (254.28 MPa) and hardness (40.47 HV), likely due to Fe agglomeration, which increased porosity and introduced microstructural defects. These results underscore the need to optimize Fe content to enhance mechanical performance while avoiding structural compromise. The study provides valuable insights into tailoring Mg-based MMCs for improved bone scaffold applications in regenerative medicine. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.
Materials Research & Consultancy Group (MRCG), Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia; Department of Materials, Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Johor Bharu, Malaysia; School of Human Resource Development and Psychology, Faculty of Social Science and Humanities, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor Bharu, Johor, Malaysia; Division of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia; Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia; Center of Advanced Materials for Renewable Energy (CAMRY), Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia
