
plating, anodizing, & finishing Q&As since 1989
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Zinc Whiskers
2002
Help on Zinc Whiskering required.
1. Is there a standard or preferred coating to prevent/reduce zinc whiskering occurring?
2. What finishes should NOT be used in computer underfloor installations in the prevention of zinc whiskers?
Michael Lette- NSW, Australia
2002
Zinc, like tin, forms whiskers when subjected to electromagnetic energy or electrical current. Alloying the zinc is the best way to prevent whiskering. There are several choices: Zinc-nickel (I think it is the best) Zinc-cobalt and zinc-iron.

Don Baudrand
Consultant - Poulsbo, Washington
(Don is co-author of "Plating on Plastics" [affil link to the book on: Amazon or AbeBooks ])
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