Microstructural evolution at the interface of bond coat and steel substrate during galvanization

Abstract

Steel components are most favored and widely used in automotive and industrial application for its enhanced mechanical properties like strength, ductility and toughness which can also be varied with addition of various alloying elements and using the proper thermo mechanical treatment to control the micro structure of the crystallites. However the life of the steel component is degraded and threatened in corrosive atmosphere. Thus the performance of the component is generally dependent on its corrosion resistance property which can be enhanced by alloying addition or surface treatment. Hot dip galvanizing is extensively used surface treatment process which is the most efficient and economical method and not only enhancing the corrosion resistance but also it increases the mechanical properties of the steel component. The basic component of this coating is zinc which can be implied on steel substrate by dipping it into the molten zinc bath in galvanizing furnace or electroplating process.