This study explores the innovative combination of Zn- and Mg-based alloys using multi-material AM techniques based on process of Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF), aiming to synergize the unique properties of these materials for optimized performance in medical devices. In addition to the locally differing mechanical properties, the objective is to achieve selective degradation in which some parts of the component dissolve faster than others and create a novel actuation mechanism within the body. The investigations include iterative recoating parameter studies, the identification of a suitable build plate material as well as the fabrication of first multi-material specimens. Additionally, different surface treatment approaches are studied. 

In the context of this study, Zn1Mg cuboid test specimens are reproducibly manufactured on a WE43 build plate with a relative density greater than 99.5 % and a support structure geometry of 300 µm. Moreover, a crack free interface between Zn1Mg and WE43MEO is achieved when combining the materials in printing direction. For the layer wise multi-material 3D printing, parameters for the ejection and suction pressure of the drum-based recoating module are found to obtain a layer thickness of 30 µm for both materials. In addition, a sufficient surface treatment for each of the alloy systems is found leading to decreased degradation rates.