ARCHITECTURE OF WEATHERING STEEL : DETAILING WITH RUST

Abstract

Weathering steel is known to be a material of low maintenance. It is said to be weather resistant because of its adherent layer of rust that impedes corrosion. The material was initially engineered for bridge construction. However, architects have also used it as a surface expression on building facades as the protective layer of rust transforms with time and context to form and ever-changing surface patina.

The performance of weathering steel is governed by atmospheric conditions and proper technical detailing. Initial research has shown a lack of informative architectural resources available. Locally, there is also a significant knowledge gap in the material benefits and its long term performance. The research attempts to address the problems associated with the application of weathering steel by presenting technical design solutions. Detail design strategies that have exploited the surface patina with differential weathering effects will be explored and analyzed.

Interviews were conducted to understand local concerns. Relevant literature associated with the beauty of rust along with scientific research into the material engineering were gathered and analyzed. Case studies and graphical illustrations were then presented to describe the main scope of the dissertation.