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 (MAX-C or MAX-I series)
MOUNTING
Compression Mounting with Phenolic, Epoxy or Diallyl Phthalate compression mounting resins
POLISHING
Abrasive/surface |
Lubricant |
Force/ sample |
Speed |
Time |
P220 grit ALO paper |
Water |
5-10 lbs |
100/100 rpm |
Until plane |
1 um DIAMAT diamond on ATLANTIS polishing pad |
DIALUBE Purple Extender |
5-10 lbs |
100/100 rpm |
2 minutes |
0.05 um Nanometer alumina on NAPPAD polishing pad |
|
5-10 lbs |
100/100 rpm |
1 minute |
 |
Pure zinc, 100X (DIC), etchant 10 grams NaOH in 100 ml D.I.water for 5 seconds |
 |
| Zinc-Aluminum alloy, 100 X Polarized Light, Etchant 40 gms CrO3, 3 gms Na2SO4, 200 ml DI water. |