WHAT IS CORTEN STEEL?
Corten steel is a weathering steel composed of copper, chromium, nickel and phosphorus.
It is a type of steel made with a chemical composition that gives its oxidation particular characteristics protecting parts made from this material against atmospheric corrosion while retaining practically all its mechanical properties.
Weathering steels are characterized by their excellent corrosion resistance, thanks to the inclusion of copper and chromium in their alloy.
Basically they consist of a low carbon content alloy (less than 0.25%) which, in addition to small amounts of Copper (Cu), Nickel (Ni) and Chromium (Cr), and when exposed to cycles of humidity and dryness, develops a homogeneous and highly adherent oxide layer on the surface of the steel exposed to climatic conditions.
It is this formation of this fine, non-progressive and protective surface oxidation layer (patina) that gives it superior corrosion resistance compared to common steels.
This surface layer develops and regenerates continuously and functions as a protective barrier against corrosion advancement without requiring additional coatings or protections, depending on the environment to which it is exposed.
Corten steel treatment
KIT NEOCORTEN
WHERE IS IT USED?
This type of steel, due to its zero maintenance requirements, elegance, versatility, adaptability and resistance, as it can be used indoors and outdoors, has become a widely used material for different applications by:
- Architects
- Sculptors
- Decorators
- Designers
- Engineers
Being used in various spaces such as:
- Structures
- Building cladding
- Doors
- Urban fencing
- Lighting fixtures
- Urban furniture
- Fountains and planters
- Pergolas and much more
PROBLEM-SOLUTION?
However, a problem that typically accompanies the installation of this type of material is contact with water, mainly rainwater, which carries oxide and causes reddish stains on surfaces adjacent to the corten steel.
These stains are very difficult to remove, especially on porous materials, particularly on concrete.
The solution to prevent this is treatment with controlled oxidation using professional products for corten steel that achieve an aged and homogeneous oxidized finish without affecting the structural integrity of the metal.
This treatment accelerates the natural oxidation process of corten steel until the desired tone is achieved and prevents stain generation.
NEOCORTEN treatment video here
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