Introducing NATURE - ArcelorMittal's new range of sustainable organic coated steels

"Nature" is the new collection of steels for the building industry that offers exceptional technical advantages and is well-placed to respond to present and future environmental regulations. Nspired by Nature, the range does not contain hexavalent chromium or heavy metals (such as lead or hexavalent chromium complex).

100% sustainable

Steel is an entirely environmentally neutral product which is infinitely recyclable.

However, in the building industry, steels are sometimes treated with coatings to meet fire regulations or improve the appearance of the metal. In rare cases, the coatings may contain ingredients which can leach into the environment or cause harm to humans.

ArcelorMittal’s new Nature collection of organic coated steels already complies with current and future regulation of the European Union REACH, on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemical Substances. REACH aims to improve the protection of human health and the environment through better and earlier identifi cation of the intrinsic properties of chemical substances. Changes to REACH, which will restrict the use of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC), are expected.

Anticipating this, ArcelorMittal has already ensured that the Nature collection is 100% free of hexavalent chromium and heavy metals. This is not the case for many imported organic coated steels brought into Europe. The quality of imported steels can be poor and they often contain SVHC.

Extensive testing programme

The durability and versatility of organic coated steel has led to its wide use in the building industry. External applications include wall cladding, roofing, and guttering. Internal applications include wall panels, suspended ceilings and lighting.

ArcelorMittal’s Nature range includes steels for both internal and external applications (see beneath). Depending on environmental conditions, the steels are guaranteed for up to 30 years against corrosion and peeling. Nature has undergone an extensive testing programme over several years. The steels have been exposed to different sources of corrosion and weathering conditions at locations around the world. The results were excellent, especially with regard to corrosion resistance (including edge corrosion), paint peeling and fi lm integrity.

ArcelorMittal’s Nature coated steel products are unique in both texture and appearance. They also have special properties which enhance their appearance or contribute to the comfort of the building.

Naturally energy efficient

Granite® Comfort greatly enhances thermal comfort in warm climates. The organic coating reflects sunlight and radiant heat back into the atmosphere. It absorbs significantly less heat than current organic coated steels. Interiors can therefore be kept up to a few degrees cooler, helping to save as much as 15% on electricity for air conditioning. With its low surface temperature and added UV protection, Granite® Comfort has a long life. It is available in a smooth texture.

Use our online simulation tool and discover how you can improve the comfort of your building and save on energy costs each year, anywhere in Europe. (seel link in the right column).

Naturally in harmony with the environment

Another example is Granite® Wood which comes in several wood patterns and colours including oak and palisander. With four layers of paint and a 35 μm outdoor paint coating, the warmth and the aesthetics of the wood finish combine well with the sustainable advantage of steel.

Naturally promoting renewable energy

Steel is also the natural choice when it comes to generating renewable energy. For photovoltaic installations, Granite® HDX PV provides resistance to UV weathering and corrosion, even in severe climatic conditions. It is also aesthetically pleasing, blending perfectly into the surrounding environment.

With a long guarantee against perforation, Granite® HDX PV is perfectly suited for photovoltaic roofing systems.