Microstructure Characterization and Corrosion Resistance of Zinc Coating Obtained in a Zn-AlNiBi Galvanizing Bath

The article examines the impact of the addition of Al, Ni, and Bi to a zinc bath on the microstructure and corrosion resistance of hot dip galvanizing coatings. The microstructure on the surface and the cross-section of the coatings obtained in the Zn-AlNiBi bath were examined. The corrosion resistance of the coatings was assessed by the standard neutral salt spray test (EN ISO 9227), the sulfur dioxide test in a humid atmosphere (EN ISO 6988), and the electrochemical test. The corrosion resistance of Zn-AlNiBi coatings was compared with the corrosion resistance of coatings attained in the bath of “pure” zinc. The corrosion tests showed higher corrosion wear of the coating obtained in the Zn-AlNiBi bath and a higher value of the corrosion current density for this coating. It was found that the cause of the reduction of the corrosion resistance of the coating, in contrast to the coating obtained in the “pure” zinc bath, may be the presence of bismuth precipitates in the coating, which may form additional corrosion cells.