Phase transformations of aged patina formed on weathering steel bridge girders

Key Points

• Aged patina reveals complex phase transformations that influence corrosion resistance in weathering steel.
• Key evidence includes a notable increase in protective layer density over a 10-year observation period.
• Analysis of surface characteristics utilized advanced microscopy and chemical analysis techniques on bridge girders.
• Findings highlight the importance of aging processes on the performance and longevity of weathering steel structures.