The electrochemical behavior of alfa brass (Cu3Zn) was studied using electrochemical and surface characterization techniques in an acidic noncomplexing medium. The alloy was prepared from pure Zn and Cu to eliminate the dezincification inhibitors and was properly heat-treated. Below a transition potential [E-t approximate to 0.25 V standard hydrogen electrode (SHE)] only zinc dissolves selectively while copper remains virtually immune. Beyond E-t copper dissolves rapidly along with zinc, reaching equal rates at similar to 0.3 V, beyond which copper dissolves faster than zinc. The significance of the transition potential E-t is different from the critical potential, E-c, which is observed with noble metal alloys. Large values of the dezincification factor (Z) were measured at potentials below E-t. As the potential increases above E-t, Z decreases asymptotically toward a value of Z approximate to 1, which indicates simultaneous dissolution of zinc and copper at rates that are proportional to their mole fractions in the alloy. Electrochemical impedance spectra were modeled using, a constant phase element. As the potential increases, the polarization resistance decreases while the double-layer capacity increases. Atomic force microscopy images show roughening of the alloy surface as a result of selective dissolution of zinc. Enrichment of copper on the alloy surface was documented using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. (C) 2009 The Electrochemical Society. [DOI: 10.1149/1.3068332] All rights reserved.