What metal is used to galvanize steel which protects it from oxidizing and gives it a unique texture/pattern as seen below?

The metal used to galvanize steel is zinc. This process involves coating the steel with a layer of zinc to prevent it from oxidizing, or rusting. The unique texture or pattern you might see on galvanized steel is a result of this process. Here are the steps:

1. The steel is cleaned to remove any oils, grease, mill scale, and rust. This is usually done through a process of caustic cleaning, pickling, and fluxing.

2. The cleaned steel is then dipped into a bath of molten zinc. The temperature of the bath is typically around 460°C.

3. The steel reacts with the molten zinc to form a series of zinc-iron alloy layers.

4. Once the steel is removed from the bath, it is cooled in a quench tank to reduce its temperature and harden the zinc-iron alloy layers.

5. The galvanized steel is then inspected for its coating weight and thickness, surface conditions, and compliance with applicable specifications.

The result is a durable, corrosion-resistant product that can be used in a wide range of applications.