Real time synchrotron analysis of the initial stages of the galvanization process in Al containing Zn baths

A real time synchrotron analysis of the breakdown of the inhibition effect of the Fe2Al5 layer is reported. Both delta and delta-xi Fe-Zn phases grow simultaneously when inhibition is suppressed until the Zn layer is consummated. Then the 6 phase grows at the expense of the delta-xi phase. The same mechanism is observed both below and above Zn melting point. Phase transformation kinetics obey an Arrhenius type law that is not affected by the liquid or solid state of the Zn layer.