How to make corten rust quickly?

To accelerate the corten rusting process in a controlled and uniform manner, rust accelerator products can be used. These products are designed to initiate and accelerate the natural process of rust patina formation on Corten steel, providing a convenient way to quickly create an aged, rustic look. Rust accelerators are generally chemical solutions based on acids or salts that promote the oxidation of steel. To use a rust accelerator, it is generally sufficient to apply the product to the surface of the corten using a brush, sprayer or sponge, making sure to evenly cover the entire surface to be treated. Next, the steel is typically exposed to the open air, where it will naturally be exposed to atmospheric moisture. Under the effect of oxygen and humidity, the rust accelerator product interacts with Corten steel, thus causing a chemical reaction which leads to the rapid formation of the characteristic rust patina. Results may vary depending on the type of product used, environmental conditions and length of exposure, but generally, steel will begin to show signs of rust within a few hours or days. It is important to carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions when using these products and take necessary precautions to ensure safe handling, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and working in a well-ventilated environment.

How does corten steel age?

Corten steel, known for its unique appearance and durability, ages developing a protective rust patina over time. This patina forms naturally when steel is exposed to atmospheric moisture, oxygen and other environmental elements. However, to speed up this process and quickly achieve the desired rustic rust look, products can be used rust accelerators specially designed. These products generally contain chemical components that promote the oxidation of steel, thus imitating the natural aging process but in an accelerated manner. By applying the rust accelerator to the surface of the corten using a brush, sprayer or sponge, then exposing the steel to open air, the chemical reaction is triggered more quickly , which leads to the accelerated formation of the characteristic rust patina. Results may vary depending on the product used, environmental conditions and length of exposure, but generally, rust will begin to develop within a few hours or days. These products therefore offer a practical way to quickly create an aged, rustic look on Corten steel while preserving its durability and aesthetic appeal. It is important to carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions when using these products and take necessary precautions to ensure safe handling.

How to prepare the metal surface before applying a rust accelerator?

Before applying a rust accelerator to a metal surface, several preparation steps are essential to ensure optimal results. If the metal surface has undergone cold rolling, it is recommended to degrease it thoroughly to remove any traces of dirt or grease. On the other hand, if the surface has been hot rolled, it is best to sand it lightly to remove imperfections. Before using the rust accelerator, it is important to shake the product well to ensure that it is homogeneous and that there is no deposit at the bottom of the container. In addition, the metal surface must be perfectly dry before applying the product.

Once the surface has been prepared, the rust accelerator can be applied using a roller dipped in the product. It is crucial to spread the product evenly over the entire surface, ensuring that no drips form. If areas do not turn blue after approximately 30 minutes, this may indicate poor surface preparation or insufficient application of the accelerator.

After two hours it is recommended to check the surface and apply a new coat of water or accelerator if necessary. Humidity conditions and a temperature above 15°C will promote the oxidation of Corten steel. It is important to note that the rust accelerator product is acid-free and only oxidizes the surface, without spreading deeply. Therefore, no other product such as a stabilizer is needed to stop the corrosion process.

Surface corrosion will continue for approximately two weeks, during which the orange hue of the rust will gradually darken to a darker shade characteristic of mature rust. Once this process is completed, the surface will have a rustic and aesthetic appearance, and rust will no longer spread.