Sustainable and diverse: architectural copper


The last few decades have seen copper and its alloys grow in popularity as modern architectural materials, but the sustainability and performance characteristics of copper should also not be forgotten. Graeme Bell of Aurubis explains more


the local environment, which cannot be replicated successfully by other materials using applied coatings. Weathering over time gives a darkening surface colour to copper that can eventually result in the distinctive green or blue patinas seen on older roofs.


C


Living surfaces To provide – straightaway – the brown oxidisation or blue/green patination of copper surfaces, factory-applied surface


ADF OCTOBER 2019


opper’s unique architectural qualities are defined by its naturally developing patina, determined by


treatments are popular, particularly for facades where rainwater ‘dwell-time’ is insufficient. These processes can enable designers to determine both the colour and intensity of patina for each project from the start. As well as a solid patina colour, other intensities can be created revealing some of the dark oxidised background material as ‘living’ surfaces.


Some of the processes involved are very similar to those taking place in the environment and utilise copper mineral compounds, not alien chemical actions. They bring forward the environmental changes without taking away the integrity


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Extremely flat, pre-oxidised copper honeycomb panels clad The Catalyst building at Edge Hill University, Ormskirk by ABW Architects © Infinite 3D


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