Abstract
Although the word ‘antei-sabi (stable rust)’ is often used in the Japanese weathering steel market, its clear explanation has not been available. Thus based upon accumulated survey data regarding rust conditions of weathering steels, engineering definition of ‘stable rust’ is proposed. In order to realize a so-called minimum maintenance bridge concept advocated by Ministry of Construction, practicality in terms of weathering steel application is assessed. Since long term prediction of corrosion loss for the steel, as well as application of adequate maintenance procedures can be established, drastic reduction in life cycle cost for bridges is considered to be plausible. Several issues to be overcome in order to realize super durable bridges by use of weathering steel are pointed out focusing on its atmospheric corrosion kinetics.
