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Monday, January 11, 2016

Bronze Sheet Patina Development for Customization

Bronze is available in many different alloys. For architectural, furniture, or lighting applications, however, architectural bronze is the standard. This alloy is generally comprised of copper, approximately five percent tin and less than one percent zinc.

Patina customization on bronze sheet can produce a variety of finishes, from warm red copper to flat black and every shade in between. In addition to changing the color of bronze by the varied application of chemicals and water, portions of the bronze sheet will be easier to polish once treated, so the variations in color will be enhanced by reflective characteristics.

To create a custom patina on bronze sheet, great care must be taken to protect the skin, eyes and respiratory health of those working on the metal. Careful review of the safety precautions provided with the chemicals is the first item to be addressed. Products such as nitric acid and acetate can be used in the creation of a custom patina, and should be handled with caution.

Other necessities in the patina creation process include
a heat source, such as a propane torch or heat gun,
application tools such as brushes, steel wool, scouring pads or cotton towels
special effects tools, such as sawdust to create voids or change the drying time
a sealant, lacquer or clear coat acrylic to stop the patina process.

Bronze sheet offers the varied beauties of copper with the strength of sturdier metals. Custom chemical treatments of bronze sheet will create one of a kind beauty.


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