A new surface treatment technology for weathering steels was developed. The developed treatment promotes the early formation of protective rust by applying a treatment film with high permeability with respect to water, which is a factor in corrosion, and fine particles of artificial rust, which encourage the preferential
formation of protective rust. This results in an early transition to the protective rust condition, which normally occurs in weathering steels only after long exposure. Furthermore, the new treatment prevents environmental pollution by the dripping rust solution (Fe ion outflow) which is frequently observed with uncoated weathering steels in the early stages of exposure. As an environment-friendly technology, the treatment agent contains no compounds of Cr or Pb, and thus also considers the surrounding environment in which structures are to be used. Where cost is concerned, no re-treatment is required, contributing to a lower Life Cycle Cost.
Keywords: artificial rest, surface treatment, weathering steel, nucleus, protective rust