Zinc Electroplating Professionals

Substrate metals like steel and iron are often coated in a thin layer of zinc to help prevent damage and deterioration from corrosion. In addition, electroplating zinc with substrate metals brings protection even if the barrier is damaged. During the zinc plating process, zinc and iron/steel are combined into a cell, called an electrolyte, turning zinc into the anode and steel the cathode. Zinc is then sacrificed, and steel doesn’t rust.

When exposed to oxygen, the zinc transforms into zinc oxide. Once in contact with the water molecules, zinc hydroxide is formed. As zinc hydroxide, reactions to carbon dioxide create a thin insoluble grey layer of zinc carbonate that adheres to underlying zinc, adding an extra layer of protection.