Diffusion of zinc in lead

The diffusion of Zn in Pb has been studied using radioactive-tracer techniques for the temperature range 182-299 °C. The experimental concentration profiles had the form of complementary-error-function curves due to the short time allowed for the anneal before oxidation of the Zn on the surface took place. The diffusion coefficients at various temperatures were fitted to an Arrhenius equation with the activation energy, $\Delta H=11.3\mathrm{}\pm 0.2$ kcal/mole and $D_0=0.016\mathrm{}\pm 0.004$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^2$/sec. The diffusion rate is comparable to that of the noble metals, along with Ni and Pd in Pb, suggesting a similar diffusion mechanism.