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Structural Characteristics and Properties of Zinc Coatings on Steel Structural Elements
Małgorzata Witkowska1, Marcin Kowalski2, Joanna Kowalska1
1Faculty of Metals Engineering and Industrial Computer Science, AGH University of Krakow, av. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland.
None:
This paper presents the structural characterization of zinc coatings on S235JR steel elements. The study offers a novel and comprehensive assessment of zinc coatings applied to profiled steel elements through hot-dip galvanizing. It examines coatings formed under real industrial production conditions, providing practical insight into their behavior on complex geometries. The characterization includes metallographic, mechanical, diffraction, and tribological tests. Metallographic observations revealed the layered structure of zinc coatings, consisting of the η, ζ, δ, and Γ phases, each with varying chemical compositions and microhardness. All coatings exhibited similar resistance to damage initiation; however, microscopic analysis revealed differences in their subsequent degradation. The thickest coating showed earlier formation of adhesive cracks, indicating increased stress concentration and a faster progression of damage.
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