Evaluation of the Performance of Galvanized Steel Support in Construction of Living Wall Systems

Abstract

Currently, Living Wall Systems (LWSs) are assuming great importance in the built environment, due to environmental and aesthetic advantages, as well as the use of urban residual space and underutilized surfaces of buildings. However, the maintenance and the durability of the materials used have been a challenge for architects and professionals in the field. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the anti-corrosion performance of a steel framing profile, galvanized carbon steel (55% Al-Zn), a sustainable material with easy assembly, to apply LWS in the hot and humid tropical climate of Niterói (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). In order to create the conditions of the tests, “X” cut were made in Al-Zn coating, sanding, and application of epoxy and glass fiber-reinforced polyester. After the experiments that lasted four months, the 55% Al-Zn coating was analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The results of the tests were promising for the use of this galvanized steel for application as a support for green vertical facades. 55% Al-Zn coatings are recommended for marine atmospheres due to their good anti-corrosion performance.