Global Weathering Steel Market Size and Trends

The global weathering steel market size is expected to reach US$ 2.11 Bn by 2030, from US$ 1.29 Bn in 2023, at a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period. Weathering steel, also known as corten steel, is a self-protecting steel that develops a stable rust-like appearance when exposed to the weather. It has high tensile strength and is used in bridges, shipping containers, seaports, and outdoor sculptures. The key drivers of the market include superior properties like increased strength and corrosion resistance.

The global weathering steel market is segmented based on type, material, end-use industry, and region. By type, the market is segmented into plates, sheets, coils, bars, and others. The plates segment accounted for the largest share as weathering steel plates offer durability, high-yield strength, improved weldability, and cost-efficiency.

Global Weathering Steel Market Trends

Increasing adoption of weathering steel in bridges and transportation infrastructure: Weathering steel is emerging as an ideal construction material for bridges and transportation infrastructure like railways, ports, bus shelters etc. owing to its high strength, lightweight nature, durability, and low maintenance. For instance, Big River Steel, a leading American producer, has stated its railway infrastructure customers more than doubled from 2020 to 2022 and new bridge projects comprised over 15% of the company's total tons shipped in 2022, up from just 5% in 2019.
High-strength weathering steel enabling lightweight design: Manufacturers are developing innovative ultra-high-strength weathering steel product lines with yield strength exceeding 1300 MPa. These advanced steel grades enable engineers to design lightweight, sustainable structures. For instance, the Federal Highway Administration estimates that over 25% of the total bridge deck area of the national highway system is now made from higher strength steels, up from under 10% in 2010.
Shift towards customized weathering steel solutions: An emerging trend is the provision of tailored weathering steel offerings catering to unique project requirements across end-use sectors. Manufacturers leverage R&D and advanced manufacturing to develop customized solutions. For instance, according to the US Department of Transportation, the use of advanced alloy-defined and coated weathering steels has increased over 10% from 2020 to 2021 in secondary road networks and inland waterway projects across the U.S.
Widening range of coatings and finishes: Weathering steel suppliers are widening their portfolio of coatings and finishes to enhance the corrosion resistance, weatherability and aesthetic appeal of products. Advanced coating technologies and paint systems compatible with weathering steel are gaining prominence. For instance, according to data from the US Department of Transportation's National Bridge Inventory, over 10% of the bridges built in 2021 used some form of customized coating on weathering steel for aesthetic pleasures.