Posters
Come meet the poster presenters to ask them questions and discuss their work
We would like to invite you to come and see the posters at our upcoming conference. The posters will showcase a diverse range of research topics, and will give delegates an opportunity to engage with the authors and learn more about their work. Whether you are a seasoned researcher or simply curious about the latest developments in your field, we believe that the posters will offer something of interest to everyone. So please join us at the conference and take advantage of this opportunity to learn and engage with your peers in industry and the academic community.
PO463: Corrosion-resistant weathering steel for offshore environments: a materials innovation by ArcelorMittal
Krista Van den Bergh, Senior project engineer, ArcelorMittal Global R&D Gent
Abstract
Structural elements such as foundations and towers of offshore wind turbines, as well as offshore substations, are continuously exposed to severe environmental conditions inherent to marine atmospheres, including high chloride concentrations, humidity, and cyclic loading. In response to the demanding conditions of offshore environments and the associated maintenance costs, the development of a corrosion-resistant and economically viable steel substrate is a key advancement in structural materials engineering. Through a tailored metallurgical approach, a new corrosion resistant weathering steel has been designed to deliver an optimal synergy between corrosion resistance, mechanical strength, and weldability. The viability of this composition has been verified through industrial-scale production trials in a heavy-plate rolling mill, confirming the robustness of the manufacturing process. Current research focuses on the comprehensive evaluation of the corrosion performance of industrially produced saline-resistant weathering steel, with an emphasis on new data for both bare and painted conditions in specific environments. Long-term atmospheric exposure testing is being conducted at marine sites classified according to ISO 9223 as C3-C5, with exposure durations currently extending up to four years. To complement natural exposure data, accelerated corrosion testing is employed to establish quantitative correlations between laboratory-based and field performance. This metallurgical design incorporates controlled additions of alloying elements which promote the formation of a dense, adherent and protective patina. This rust layer impedes further penetration of corrosive species and stabilizes over time, thereby improving long-term atmospheric corrosion resistance. The nature, composition, and morphology of the corrosion products formed during exposure are systematically investigated using advanced surface analytical techniques. These analyses enable phase composition and morphology and provide insight into the protective capabilities of the rust layers. Furthermore, the susceptibility of the material to corrosion fatigue is being investigated to better understand its long-term durability under cyclic mechanical loading in corrosive marine environments.
No recording available for this poster.
