Pure zinc can be difficult to prepare because it forms abrasion artifacts in the form of small recrystallized grains which often produce twinning. Proper preparation requires minimizing damage. For pure zinc alternating between polishing and etching and repolishing is often required in order to remove the damaged microstructure. The recommended etchant is 10 grams of sodium hydroxide in 100 ml D.I. water; etch for only a few seconds before repolishing.
SECTIONING
MAXCUT Abrasive blade (Cat. No. MAX-E series)
MOUNTING
Compression Mounting with Phenolic, Epoxy or Diallyl Phthalate compression mounting resins
POLISHING
Abrasive/surface |
Lubricant |
Force/ sample |
Time |
320 grit SiC paper |
Water |
5 lbs |
Until plane |
1 um DIAMAT diamond on DACRON pad |
DIALUBE Purple Extender |
5 lbs |
2 minutes |
0.05 um Nanometer alumina on NAPPAD pad |
Etch and repolish |
5 lbs |
30 seconds |
 |
Pure zinc, 100X (DIC), etchant 10 grams NaOH in 100 ml D.I. water for 5 seconds |