  Magnesium alloys are emerging as promising alternatives to traditional
orthopedic implant materials thanks to their biodegradability,
biocompatibility, and impressive mechanical characteristics. However, their
rapid in-vivo degradation presents challenges, notably in upholding mechanical
integrity over time. This study investigates the impact of high-temperature
thermal processing on the mechanical and degradation attributes of a lean
Mg-Zn-Ca-Mn alloy, ZX10. Utilizing rapid, cost-efficient characterization
methods like X-ray diffraction and optical, we swiftly examine microstructural
changes post-thermal treatment. Employing Pearson correlation coefficient
analysis, we unveil the relationship between microstructural properties and
critical targets (properties): hardness and corrosion resistance. Additionally,
leveraging the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), we
pinpoint the dominant microstructural factors among closely correlated
variables. Our findings underscore the significant role of grain size
refinement in strengthening and the predominance of the ternary Ca2Mg6Zn3 phase
in corrosion behavior. This suggests that achieving an optimal blend of
strength and corrosion resistance is attainable through fine grains and reduced
concentration of ternary phases. This thorough investigation furnishes valuable
insights into the intricate interplay of processing, structure, and properties
in magnesium alloys, thereby advancing the development of superior
biodegradable implant materials.
