Corten - cor-ten steel

DEFINITION

Corten (or Cor-Ten) steel is the trademark name of a product developed in the 1930s by United States Steel for the fabrication of rail cars. Its chemical composition promotes the early formation of an adhering protective layer of rust when exposed to the elements. The protective layer constantly develops and regenerates over time, reacting to the pollutants in the atmosphere. Its unique look and naturally oxidizing finish (after 6 or 7 years it can look like bronze) make it especially desirable for many architectural projects and as a medium for outdoor sculpture. Currently, Richard Serra is probably the most famous artist using it as a sculpture medium. Sources: http://allsteelsculpture.com/content/view/42/43/; http://www.masteel.co.uk/corten-weather-resistant-steel.htm; and ???The State of the Art??? (1987), by Arthur C. Danto; Prentice Hall Press. Submitted by M.D. Silverbrooke, West Vancouver, British Columbia.