Core characteristics of weathering steel
(1) Corrosion resistance mechanism
By adding alloy elements such as Cu, P, Cr, and Ni, a dense rust protective layer (Patina) is formed on the surface to prevent further corrosion.
Unlike ordinary steel, its rust layer does not continue to peel off, but adheres stably, reducing the corrosion rate.
(2) Typical steel grades
International standards:
ASTM A242 (such as Corten A), ASTM A588 (such as Corten B)
EN 10025-5 (such as S355J0WP, S355J2W)
JIS G3114 (such as SMA400AW, SMA490AW)
Chinese standards:
Q355NH (GB/T 4171, corresponding to European standard S355J0WP)
Q460NH (higher strength weathering steel)
(3) Application scenarios
Bridges (such as the Golden Gate Bridge in the United States), building curtain walls, containers, railway vehicles, transmission towers and other outdoor long-term exposed structures.



