Atmospheric corrosion of Cor-Ten steel with different surface finish: Accelerated ageing and metal release

Cor-Ten steel is widely used in architecture, for its aesthetical and technological features (i.e. auto-protection from atmospheric corrosion). However, environmental conditions and exposure geometry strongly affect resistance to corrosion. This work focuses on the corrosion behaviour of Cor-Ten with different surface finish typically adopted in art/architecture (bare/pre-patinated/pre-patinated and waxed) in stagnant or runoff conditions. The evolution of the exposed surfaces and the metal release are followed as a function of exposure time. The results showed that pre-patination has no beneficial effects on corrosion and, in stagnant conditions, the high metal release suggests the need of field investigations to evaluate possible adverse effects on the environment.

► Cor-Ten corrosion behaviour in stagnant or runoff conditions (accelerated ageing tests). ► Surface finishing for art/architecture (bare or pre-patinated, with/without beeswax coating). ► Characterisation of exposed surfaces and metal release followed with increasing time. ► Pre-patination, with/without beeswax coating: not beneficial for corrosion protection. ► Unsatisfactory corrosion behaviour of bare steel in stagnant conditions.