In a significant stride towards sustainable infrastructure, researchers have developed an innovative steel that promises to revolutionize highway guardrails. The new steel, named LG500EW, is not only high-strength and corrosion-resistant but also eco-friendly, eliminating the need for coatings. This breakthrough, published in the journal *Teshugang* (translated as “Iron and Steel”), addresses longstanding challenges in the construction industry, particularly in the energy sector where durability and environmental impact are critical.
Traditional galvanized plain carbon steel, such as Q235, has been the go-to material for highway guardrails. However, its low strength, poor corrosion resistance, and the environmental pollution caused by the galvanizing process have been persistent issues. “The development of LG500EW is a game-changer,” says lead author Li Xian. “It combines low carbon, high chromium, and trace amounts of copper and nickel, along with advanced Thermo-Mechanical Control Process (TMCP) rolling, to ensure superior corrosion resistance and formability.”
The research involved rigorous testing in simulated industrial marine atmospheric environments. Using methods such as SEM analysis, metallographic analysis, corrosion weight loss measurement, and electrochemical analysis, the team compared LG500EW with traditional galvanized Q235 and conventional low-alloy Q355B. The results were striking. While both LG500EW and galvanized Q235 outperformed Q355B, the corrosion rate of galvanized Q235 continued to rise until corrosion occurred beneath the coating. In contrast, LG500EW developed a protective rust layer over time, with a dense and complete plate-like corrosion product layer. “The self-corrosion potential of LG500EW rises while the self-corrosion current decreases, demonstrating its excellent corrosion resistance,” explains Li Xian.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. Highways, particularly those in industrial and marine environments, are critical infrastructure for energy transportation and distribution. The use of LG500EW in highway guardrails can significantly enhance safety and longevity, reducing maintenance costs and downtime. Moreover, the elimination of the galvanizing process reduces carbon emissions across the entire industry chain, aligning with national “Dual Carbon” goals of carbon peaking and neutrality.
The successful application of LG500EW in coating-free highway guardrails has already yielded economic, social, and ecological benefits. As the energy sector continues to prioritize sustainability and efficiency, innovations like LG500EW are poised to shape the future of infrastructure development. This research, published in *Teshugang*, marks a significant step forward in the quest for durable, eco-friendly materials that can withstand the harshest environments.
The development of LG500EW is not just a scientific achievement but a testament to the potential of innovative materials to transform industries. As Li Xian notes, “This is just the beginning. The possibilities for high-strength, corrosion-resistant, and eco-friendly materials are vast, and we are excited to explore them further.”