Galvanization

Galvanization is the process of applying a protective coating of zinc to steel or iron to prevent rusting.

The most prevalent process for galvanization is called hot-dip galvanization where the steel is dipped into a vat of molten zinc to apply the coating.

During the process the zinc bonds to the iron in the steel (steel being an alloy of iron and carbon). The bond occurs in layers.

With each subsequent layer, the composition of that layer changes. As you get closer to the steel, the amount of iron in the layer increases and the amount of zinc decreases.

The outermost layer of the galvanization is 100% zinc.

Questions

• If we are going to play with barbed wire with galvanized coating, does the galvanized coating increase our risk?
• If so, what is the risk?
• How could that risk be mitigated or eliminated?

Possible Scenarios:

1. Galvanized coating (zinc or zinc-alloy) is compromised somehow, becomes detached from the barbed wire, and is introduced into the body.

   a. Introduction of zinc particles subcutaneously via barb stick.

   b. Incidental oral ingestion of zinc particles.

   c. Incidental inhalation of zinc particles.

2. Allergic reaction to the coating due to contact with the galvanized coating.

How likely is the galvanized coating on the barbed wire to be compromised during prep? During play?

Galvanization and Heat

“Constant exposure to temperatures below 390°F (200°C) is a perfectly acceptable environment for hot-dip galvanized steel.” (galvanizeit.org)

Steam autoclave sterilization usually reaches temperatures between: 248 - 275°F (120 - 135°C)

Dry heat sterilization techniques usually utilize temperatures around: 340°F (170°C)