Weathering Steel Sheet  referred to as COR-TEN Steel, Weathering Steel Sheet is a group of steel alloys that develop a stable external layer of rust, eliminating the need for painting in many environments. The corrosion-retarding characteristics of this naturally-formed rust patina make it more resistant to damage and wear, outlasting regular carbon steel structures.

The alloying elements in weathering steels cause the initial rust layer that forms on the surface of the steel to be much thicker than it would be on non-weathering steel. This layer, known as the patina, is very dense and prevents oxygen and moisture from penetrating deep into the steel. This protects the metal from further corrosion and allows it to self-heal from small scratches or chips.

Why Corten Steel Plates Are the Ultimate Choice for Weather-Resistant Projects

Corten steel is a popular choice for architects and builders seeking a modern, industrial look for their projects. The material is also gaining popularity as a way to reduce maintenance costs by eliminating the need for repainting and recoating.

Originally developed by United States Steel in the 1930s, this high strength low alloy steel was used to resist corrosion and abrasion in their ore wagons. It was later adopted for use in construction, notably at the John Deere World Headquarters building in Moline, Illinois (designed by architect Eero Saarinen and completed in 1964) and the main buildings of Odense University in Denmark. The material is available in a number of different ASTM specifications and several trademarked names, including the genericized trademark COR-TEN.