What is metal oxidation and oxidizing?
Oxidation is the natural coloring of metal which occurs when the oxygen in the air makes contact with various metals. Natural oxidation (tarnishing) will occur with bronze, brass, and copper just by weathering and aging alone. Oxidation may also be achieved chemically. Bronze and many other metals may be oxidized chemically. The oxidizing of metal surfaces is a finishing process that uses certain chemicals to speed up the natural reaction of the metal to the atmosphere and thus quickly achieve the desired color. Oxidizing is commonly used for coloring natural metal surfaces. It is used on historical buildings, museums, and for various architectural surfaces to achieve a specific statuary color. The most commonly oxidized metals are: • Bronze • Brass • Copper Other metals that may be oxidized include: • Steel • Iron • Aluminum • Nickel Commonly oxidized surfaces include: • Doors • Revolving doors • Elevators (interior and exterior) • Elevator doors • Window frames • Fascia panels • Buil
