1. Daily Surface Cleaning: Gentle and Non-Abrasive
Cleaning Frequency: For outdoor applications, rinse with fresh water every 2–3 months to remove dust, bird droppings, or surface contaminants. For indoor use, cleaning once every 6 months is sufficient.
Cleaning Method: Use a soft-bristled brush or low-pressure water jet (≤0.3 MPa) to gently wipe the surface. Do not use wire brushes, sandpaper, or abrasive sponges-these will scratch the patina and expose the underlying steel, leading to localized rusting.
Prohibited Cleaners: Avoid acidic, alkaline, or detergent-based cleaners (e.g., vinegar, bleach, industrial degreasers). These chemicals can dissolve the alloy-enriched components in the patina, weakening its corrosion resistance. If stubborn stains (e.g., tree sap) exist, use a small amount of neutral soap solution and rinse thoroughly with water immediately.
2. Prevent Stagnant Water and Contaminant Accumulation
Drainage Check: Ensure the steel plate (especially for signs, screens, or structural components) has no flat surfaces where water can pool. Clear drainage holes or gaps regularly to avoid moisture retention-stagnant water will cause the patina to peel off or form uneven rust spots.
Contaminant Removal: Promptly clean corrosive contaminants (e.g., salt spray in coastal areas, industrial dust with sulfur compounds) within 24 hours of exposure. Rinse with fresh water to dilute and wash away these substances, as they can accelerate patina degradation.
3. Protect the Patina from Physical Damage
Avoid Direct Impact: Prevent hard objects from colliding with the steel surface, as impacts can chip the patina and expose bare steel. For high-traffic areas (e.g., outdoor screens in public plazas), install protective bumpers around the edges.
Limit Surface Contact: Do not place heavy items or sticky materials (e.g., tape, adhesive labels) on the patina for extended periods. Blocking air and moisture exchange will disrupt the patina's self-healing ability and cause discoloration in covered areas.
4. Reinforce Protection with Breathable Sealant
Sealant Application: For artificially accelerated patina, apply a transparent breathable sealant (acrylic or fluorocarbon-based) 1–2 weeks after patina formation. This sealant locks in the patina color and reduces the risk of fading, while still allowing air and moisture to penetrate (critical for the patina's self-repair function).
Reapplication Cycle: Reapply the sealant every 2–3 years for outdoor components; for indoor use, reapplication every 4–5 years is enough. Before reapplication, clean the surface gently to remove dust, then let it dry completely.
Prohibition Note: Do not use non-breathable coatings (e.g., epoxy, alkyd paint). These coatings trap moisture under the film, causing blistering and localized corrosion of the patina.
5. Regular Inspection and Touch-Up
Inspection Frequency: Check the patina surface quarterly for outdoor components and semi-annually for indoor ones. Focus on edges, welds, and areas prone to water accumulation.
Touch-Up for Minor Damage: If small scratches or peeling occur:
Clean the damaged area with fresh water and let it dry.
Apply a small amount of patina accelerator (matching the original formula) to the bare steel spot, and maintain high humidity (70–90%) for 2–3 days to form a new patina layer.
Once the new patina matches the surrounding area, apply a thin layer of breathable sealant to the spot.
Major Damage Handling: If large areas of the patina peel off (due to severe impact or chemical corrosion), reprocess the entire surface with the artificial patina acceleration method to ensure color and performance uniformity.
6. Special Maintenance for Harsh Environments
Coastal/Salt Spray Areas: Increase cleaning frequency to once a month, and rinse with fresh water after heavy rain to remove salt deposits. Add a layer of salt-resistant breathable sealant to enhance protection.
Industrial Zones (with sulfur dioxide, dust): Install a rain cover above the steel components to reduce exposure to corrosive industrial pollutants. Clean the surface with water every 2 weeks to remove accumulated dust.
