Vinit Jha (DC11)

Mechanistic study of biodegradation of additively manufactured Mg and Zn alloys under mechanical load

About

My project focuses on understanding how biodegradable magnesium and zinc materials behave when exposed to both body fluids and mechanical loading. One of the key challenges with biodegradable metallic implants is controlling their degradation rate while maintaining sufficient mechanical integrity for the required healing period. Mechanical loading can further accelerate degradation and compromise the mechanical performance of these materials, potentially leading to premature loss of load-bearing capacity. Using laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB), I investigate how material structure, mechanical loading, and corrosion interact during degradation. The ultimate goal is to develop a better understanding of these interactions and contribute to the design of safer and more reliable biodegradable implants that provide mechanical support while gradually degrading in the body.

Background

With a background in Manufacturing Technology, my research experience spans metallic materials, thin-film coatings, and corrosion. During my master’s research, I developed and characterized protective organic thin-film coatings using the Floating Film Transfer Method and investigated their corrosion performance. I later gained industrial R&D experience at ETA Technology Pvt. Ltd., working on advanced joining processes such as Friction Stir Welding and Rotary Friction Welding, along with the development and testing of mechanical test rigs. This combination of materials research and hands-on engineering experience has shaped my interest in the relationship between manufacturing, mechanical behaviour, and material degradation.