Abstract: A process for depositing a zinc-iron alloy layer material having a body centred cubic crystal structure of the ?-phase, a (330) texture and an iron content of 12 to 20 wt.-% including the steps (i) providing a metallic substrate, (ii) contacting the substrate with an alkaline aqueous zinc-iron alloy plating bath containing 4 to 6 g/l zinc ions, 1 to 3 g/l iron ions, 25 to 35 g/l hydroxyl ions, 0.5 to 2.5 g/l of a quaternary ammonium polymer and at least one complexing agent selected from the group consisting of hydroxyl carboxylic acids and salts thereof and simultaneously applying a current to the substrate. The zinc alloy layer material provides a high corrosion protection to metallic substrates, has a high hardness and a bright appearance.

Abstract: The invention discloses a zinc-iron alloy layer material having a body centred cubic crystal structure of the ?-phase, a (330) texture and an iron content of 12 to 20 wt.-% deposited from an alkaline aqueous plating bath. The zinc alloy layer material provides a high corrosion protection to metallic substrates, has a high hardness and a bright appearance.