Weathering steel, also known as weathering structural steel or atmospheric corrosive steel, is a kind of steel with good resistance to atmospheric corrosion. It is mainly composed of iron, steel and other alloying elements, the most common of which are copper, chromium, nickel and phosphorus. Weathering steel generally has high strength and corrosion resistance, allowing it to be used in harsh climate conditions for a long time without losing its structural strength.
The main feature of weathering steel is the formation of a dense layer of oxide scale (also called rust) in the atmosphere. This layer of oxide scale can prevent further penetration of oxygen, water and other corrosive substances, thus protecting the interior of the steel from corrosion. The rate at which this scale forms depends on environmental conditions such as humidity, temperature and the oxygen content in the atmosphere.
Weathering steel is widely used in buildings, bridges, shipbuilding, railway vehicles and other engineering structures that require weather resistance. They last a long time in outdoor environments, reducing maintenance and repair costs.
