Dissimilar weldingLaser joiningIntermetallic compoundsJoint strengthMicrostructureWelding defectsAluminumSteelZINC-COATED STEELMECHANICAL-PROPERTIESINTERMETALLIC COMPOUNDSNUMERICAL-SIMULATIONINTERFACIAL REACTIONMOLTEN ALUMINUMCARBON-STEELBUTT-JOINTSOLID IRONLAP JOINT