Star Blue™ Preweathered Copper Patina
Star Blue copper is a preweathered surface patina on copper offered by A. Zahner Company. The custom copper sheet product provides a range of unique visual color textures on authentic copper surfaces.
Zahner began working with copper patination when the company was formed in the late nineteenth century. To get the aged copper look of ancient domes requires entire centuries of weathering in conditions that are neither too dry nor too humid. Zahner uses a technique that speeds up this process.
Star Blue Copper patinated copper clads the Kansas Star production facility.
PHOTO © A. ZAHNER COMPANY.The custom patina can be used on a range of different wall paneling systems, roofing systems, and architectural accents, as well as art and sculpture projects of any scale. Patinas are often preferred over paints for their natural weathering and aging, a much desired trait compared with painted surfaces which deteriorate.
Blue Copper, Unlike Any Other Material
Zahner operationalized the Star Blue patina on copper for the Kansas City Star Production Facility, the first large-scale application of Zahner’s proprietary rapid-patination process.
The artistic patina has variation in tone and texture, an uncommon trait that is sought after in the architectural metals community. The development of stable patinas on copper requires a strong background in science, and an understanding of chemical compounds, various climates, and their atmospheric and local conditions.
Custom wall panel with patinated copper.
PHOTO © LISA LOGAN.
Curved roof system with patinated copper.
PHOTO © A. ZAHNER COMPANY.
Custom copper wall and soffit for Columbus Art Museum.
PHOTO BY JEREMY PURSER, © A. ZAHNER COMPANY.
Close up view of Star Blue Copper.
PHOTO © A. ZAHNER COMPANY.The Star Blue difference — Resolving Verdigris
Verdigris refers to a chemical process applied to copper in order to create a blue-green color. Specifically, it references copper acetate, a pigment which develops as a reaction between copper and acetic acid.
The problem with verdigris patina standards, is that it can leave the material in a soluble state. Zahner patina technicians have mastered the process of taking verdigris to an insoluble state, ensuring that the patina is fused to the surface. This is the Star Blue surface, a chemically stable patina produced safely using rapid-patination offered by A. Zahner Company.
Hands of Man by L. William Zahner
PHOTO © A. ZAHNER COMPANY.
PHOTO © NAHO KUBOTA
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