by Roger Sowinsky
Vice President, Technology
As published on pfonline.com

Electrodeposited zinc is used for coating iron and steel parts when protection from the corrosive effects of the atmosphere is the primary goal. Zinc however by itself, while offering sacrificial corrosion protection based upon its larger negative electro-potential than iron, is not used without subsequent treatment.

Commercial zinc plating up until the 1970’s had been traditionally done from a cyanide electrolyte. Because of environmental considerations, other processes were developed. Today alkaline non-cyanide (alkaline zincate) and acid chloride baths comprise the bulk of commercial zinc plating being done. These processes are applicable to both rack and barrel zinc processes.  Read more.