First-principles calculation and experimental study on the effect of rare earth Ce and Gd on the corrosion of ZK61 magnesium alloys
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study investigates how trace Ce/Gd additions (0.5 wt%) affect the corrosion behavior of ZK61 magnesium alloy by combining first-principles calculations with experimental validation. The results reveal that both elements transform binary Mg-Zn phases into ternary Mg-Zn-RE compounds. These new phases exhibit a lower work function and electrode potential closer to the α-Mg matrix than the cathodic MgZn2 phase, thereby reducing the micro-galvanic driving force. Consequently, the corrosion resistance is significantly improved, as confirmed by hydrogen evolution and electrochemical tests, with the performance ranking as ZK61-0.5Gd > ZK61-0.5Ce> ZK61. This work establishes a clear structure–property relationship, demonstrating that rare earth elements enhance corrosion resistance by mitigating galvanic coupling through controlled phase transformation.
Source: Materials Research Express
Authors: Yu Kang, Feng Guo, Huisheng Cai, Zhenchao Xu, An Li, Juan Su, Liang Liu, Rong Chai
Language: English
Subfield: Biomaterials
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,000
OpenAlex ID: W7083685703