: Mg matrix in situ composites were fabricated from Mg and ZnO powder by a spark
plasma sintering method. The composition and microstructure of the sintered samples were
characterized. Corrosion properties of fabricated composites were evaluated by immersion and
by electrochemical tests using Hanks’ solution. The results showed that the formation of in situ
products improved significantly the corrosion resistance of the fabricated composites compared with
pure Mg; Mg-10 wt % ZnO composites especially exhibited the lowest corrosion rate. In addition,
an energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis showed that calcium phosphate formed as a corrosion
product on the surface of Mg-10 wt % ZnO composites, while Mg(OH)2 appeared as a corrosion
product on the surface of Mg-20 wt % ZnO composite. The findings suggested Mg-10 wt % ZnO
composite as a potential candidate for temporary implant application