The effect of chromated and organic layers on corrosion resistance of galvanized steel sheets

Chromated zinc steel sheets have been used widely for corrosion resistance performance in various waters. The coating system includes a chromated layer and both a primer and topcoat, a commonly applied system for better corrosion performance. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results show that the corrosion resistance of chromated zinc is due to its passivity after water uptake during the exposure. In galvanized steel sheets with a primer, the electrolyte solution can only reach the metallic substrate through the coating pores; thus, a double layer could build up locally at the bottom of the pores, resulting in a good corrosion resistance for the sheet. On the other hand, the high-pore-resistance system of primer and topcoat provides no evidence of corrosion even after 8 weeks’ exposure.