Zn3Ni

Zn₃Ni is an intermetallic compound combining zinc and nickel, forming a brittle metallic phase that typically appears as a constituent in zinc-nickel coatings and galvanized steel systems rather than as a standalone engineering material. This phase is important in electroplated and hot-dip galvanized coatings because it influences corrosion resistance, coating adhesion, and wear performance; engineers must manage or control its formation depending on whether enhanced hardness or ductility is prioritized in the coating architecture. Zn₃Ni is notable in automotive and infrastructure applications where zinc-nickel plating offers superior corrosion protection compared to pure zinc coatings, particularly in high-humidity and salt-spray environments.