Atlas index
Sheet · 1.5–8 mm
Metallic — indicative fig. M·84

High-strength weathering steel sheet that develops a protective rust patina, eliminating painting requirements. Available to AS/NZS 3678 WR350 specification with 350MPa minimum yield strength for structural and architectural applications in Australian conditions.

01 Physical

Density 7850kg/m³
Specific gravity 7.85
Porosity 0%
Water absorption 0%
Hardness 170
UV resistance Excellent
Chemical resistance Good
pH tolerance 4-10
Surface roughness 25µm

02 Mechanical

Tensile strength 480MPa
Compressive strength 350MPa
Flexural strength 350MPa
Shear strength 210MPa
Poisson's ratio 0.3
Impact resistance 27
Creep resistance Excellent

03 Thermal

Thermal conductivity 50W/m·K
Specific heat 450J/kg·K
Thermal expansion 11.7×10⁻⁶/°C

04 Compliance & Fire First question

Combustibility class Non-combustible
Fire resistance level 0/0/0
Flame spread index 0
Smoke dev. index 0
Heat release rate 0

05 Sustainability & Health

Embodied carbon 19.6
Carbon footprint 2.5
Embodied energy 35MJ/kg
Water footprint 64L/kg
Recyclability 100%
Recycled content 25%
Renewable content 0%
Circular score 95
VOC emissions 0
Toxicity rating Non-toxic
LEED contribution 2

06 Durability · Cost · Logistics

Expected lifespan 50-120 years
Maintenance interval Annual inspection
Warranty period 10-25 years
Material cost (range) $2800-3500/tonne
Material cost (per unit) $22-27/m²
Lead time 2-4 weeks
Lifecycle cost $70-100/m²
Annual maintenance $0.50/m²
Market availability Good

07 Assessment

Advantages

  • No painting required - self-protecting patina
  • Lower lifecycle costs than painted steel
  • 100% recyclable at end of life
  • High strength-to-weight ratio (350MPa yield)
  • Excellent aesthetic qualities with natural weathering
  • 120+ year design life in appropriate environments
  • Suitable for all BAL ratings (AS 3959)
  • Self-healing if scratched or damaged
  • Low maintenance requirements
  • CSIRO-verified performance in Australian climates

Constraints

  • Initial rust runoff can stain adjacent materials
  • 18-36 months for full patina development
  • Not suitable for marine environments <1km from coast
  • Requires drainage - cannot tolerate ponding water
  • Higher initial cost than carbon steel (20-30% premium)
  • Special welding consumables required
  • Patina can transfer to clothing during formation
  • Performance varies with microclimate conditions
  • Limited availability in some regional areas
  • Requires experienced detailing for optimal performance

08 Applications

A1 Architectural facades and cladding systems
A2 Bridge structures and infrastructure
A3 Landscape edging and retaining walls
A4 Sculptural and artistic installations
A5 Industrial buildings and warehouses
A6 Noise barriers and acoustic walls
A7 Structural frames in appropriate environments
A8 Decorative screens and privacy panels
A9 Chimney and exhaust stack construction
A10 Mining and agricultural equipment

09 Sources & Standards

Sources pending — citations for this material are not yet recorded. Verify all figures against manufacturer data and current standards before specifying.

MATERIALS ATLAS · CL·AD M·84 · data indicative — verify per project