The Role of Sengon (Albizia falcataria) Leaf Extract in the Zinc Electrodeposition Process on Iron Substrate

Abstract

The development of natural additives in metal electrodeposition processes has emerged as a promising alternative. This study evaluates the role of aqueous extract of sengon leaves (Albizia falcataria) as an additive in the zinc electrodeposition process on iron plates. The plating was carried out in a zinc chloride electrolyte solution with variations in current density and deposition time. Observed parameters included surface morphology, coating mass, and thickness. The results showed that the addition of sengon leaf aqueous extract improved the coating quality by producing a smoother and more uniform surface. The active compounds in the extract are presumed to act as wetting agents, aiding the growth of zinc crystals. This study indicates that sengon leaf aqueous extract has potential as an alternative additive in the zinc electrodeposition process.