The electrodeposition of copper, zinc and brass onto steel substrates
from citrate-based alloy baths has been studied for a variety of bath
compositions, temperatures and current densities. The influences of th
ese variables on cathodic polarization, cathodic current efficiencies,
quality of the deposits and composition of the alloys have been deter
mined. The surface morphology of the deposits has been examined by sca
nning electron microscopy and crystal structure by X-ray. Fine-grained
and adherent deposits of brass have been plated in most cases.