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

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.