Corrosion Protection for Prefabricated Steel Buildings

Steel structure building construction, with its exceptional mechanical properties and construction efficiency, plays an key role in the modern architectural field. However, the issue of steel corrosion has always been a significant challenge for the steel structure engineering community. To extend the service life of prefabricated steel structures and ensure their safety performance, engineers continuously explore and develop new anti-corrosion technologies. We will review traditional anti-corrosion measures and introduce some emerging anti-corrosion technologies, aiming to provide a more comprehensive solution for the corrosion protection of steel structures.   Review of Traditional Anti-Corrosion Measures Traditional methods for the corrosion protection of steel framed structures mainly include hot-dip galvanizing, thermal spraying, painting, thermal spraying of aluminum (zinc) composite coatings, the selection of corrosion-resistant materials, and anti-corrosion treatment during transportation. These methods have been proven effective in practical applications, but they also have some limitations, such as construction condition restrictions, environmental impact, and cost issues.   Exploration of Emerging Anti-Corrosion Technologies: With the development of technology, some emerging anti-corrosion technologies of steel frame structures have begun to attract attention, showing potential in improving corrosion resistance, reducing costs, and environmental friendliness: Nanotechnology: Utilizing the ultra-fine particle size and high specific surface area of nanoparticles to prepare coatings with superior corrosion resistance. Cold Spray Technology: Conducted at room temperature or lower temperatures, avoiding the creation of heat-affected zones, suitable for materials sensitive to heat. Self-healing Coatings: Containing microcapsules that automatically fill damaged areas when the coating is damaged, achieving self-repair. Bio-based Anti-corrosive Coatings: Using biotechnology to extract effective components and prepare environmentally friendly anti-corrosive coatings. Superhydrophobic Coatings: Through specific surface treatment techniques, reducing contact between water and corrosive media with the material surface. Electrochemical Protection: By applying current or voltage, forming a protective oxide film or passivation film to improve corrosion resistance. Laser Surface Treatment: Using lasers to form a hardening layer or change the surface chemical composition, enhancing the material's corrosion resistance. 3D Printing Technology: Used to manufacture anti-corrosion coatings or components with complex shapes and structures.   In the field of prefabricated steel frame corrosion protection, the organic integration of traditional and emerging technologies is key to improving corrosion resistance and reducing maintenance costs. We should encourage innovation, integrating cutting-edge technologies such as nanotechnology, cold spraying, self-healing coatings, and bio-based anti-corrosive coatings into traditional anti-corrosion methods to enhance their stability and efficiency. At the same time, pay attention to environmental protection, prioritize the selection of environmentally friendly anti-corrosion materials, and reduce the ecological impact of engineering. Utilize 3D printing technology for customized design to adapt to the specific needs of different steel frame structure projects, enhancing the functionality and adaptability of the anti-corrosion layer. In addition, continue to focus on and introduce the latest research results in anti-corrosion technology to cope with the ever-changing engineering challenges and environmental conditions, ensuring the long-term stability and safety of light steel frame structures. Through this comprehensive strategy, we can provide more comprehensive and enduring corrosion protection for steel structures.