Atlas index
Form · Sizes pending
Metallic — indicative fig. M·97

Architectural bronze elements for premium facade cladding and decorative applications

01 Physical

Density 8530kg/m3
Specific gravity 8.53
Porosity 0%
Water absorption 0%
Hardness 3-4Mohs
UV resistance Excellent
Chemical resistance Good
pH tolerance 5-12pH
Surface roughness 0.8-3.2um

02 Mechanical

Tensile strength 390-655MPa
Compressive strength 390-655MPa
Flexural strength 390-655MPa
Shear strength 240MPa
Poisson's ratio 0.34
Impact resistance 40-80J
Creep resistance Good

03 Thermal

Thermal conductivity 36W/mK
Specific heat 380J/kgK
Thermal expansion 0.018mm/m/degC

04 Compliance & Fire First question

Combustibility class A1 (Non-combustible)
Fire resistance level 60+minutes
Ignition temp N/A (non-combustible)degC
Flame spread index 0
Smoke dev. index 0
Heat release rate 0kW/m2

05 Sustainability & Health

Embodied carbon 3.5-5.0kg CO2-eq/kg
Carbon footprint 45-64kg CO2-eq/m2
Embodied energy 50-80MJ/kg
Water footprint 60-150L/kg
Recyclability 100%
Recycled content 40-80%
Renewable content 0%
Circular score 9.5/10
VOC emissions 0ug/m3
Toxicity rating Low
LEED contribution 2-4points

06 Durability · Cost · Logistics

Expected lifespan 100-200+years
Maintenance interval 1825-3650days
Warranty period 25-40years
Material cost (range) 700-2500AUD/m2
Material cost (per unit) 900AUD/m2
Lead time 84-196days
Lifecycle cost 1150-3500AUD/m2
Annual maintenance 0.50-2.00AUD/m2/year
Market availability Limited

07 Assessment

Advantages

  • Exceptional longevity exceeding 100-200 years with minimal maintenance
  • Warm distinctive patina develops naturally, creating living aesthetic
  • Non-combustible (Euroclass A1) - fully compliant with NCC fire requirements
  • 100% recyclable with high scrap value incentivising proper end-of-life recovery
  • Superior corrosion resistance in most atmospheric environments
  • Excellent formability - can be cast, extruded, bent, welded, and machined
  • Inherent antimicrobial properties (copper alloy effect)
  • High strength-to-weight ratio compared to pure copper
  • Prestigious aesthetic appropriate for landmark and institutional buildings

Constraints

  • Very high material and fabrication cost - premium tier pricing
  • Heavy material requiring robust substrate and structural support
  • Galvanic corrosion risk when in contact with dissimilar metals (especially aluminium and zinc)
  • Limited local supply in Australia - most sheet stock imported from Europe/USA
  • Patina development varies with orientation and exposure, potentially uneven appearance
  • Requires specialist fabrication skills and equipment
  • Susceptible to fingerprinting and handling marks during installation

08 Applications

A1 Rainscreen facade cladding Ventilated rainscreen systems using bronze cassette panels, tray panels, or interlocking shingle elements fixed to aluminium or steel subframe. Primary application for large commercial and institutional buildings.
A2 Spandrel and column cladding Bronze panels covering non-vision areas of curtain wall systems and wrapping structural columns. Provides continuity of premium metal finish across the building envelope.
A3 Monumental and heritage architecture Cast and fabricated bronze elements for civic, religious, and cultural buildings. Includes entrance doors, decorative panels, relief sculptures, and restoration of historic bronze elements.
A4 Interior feature elements Bronze wall panels, lift lobby linings, reception desk cladding, and ceiling panels for premium interior fitouts. Often specified with maintained polished or brushed finish.
A5 Perforated screening and sun shading Perforated or woven bronze mesh screens for solar shading, privacy screening, and decorative facade elements. Combines functional performance with distinctive aesthetic.

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·97 · data indicative — verify per project