Noble alloy of Copper (Cu) and Zinc (Zn). Celebrated for its golden lustre and exceptional mechanical workability (extrusion, deep drawing, wire drawing). In architecture it is the material of choice for high-quality finishes, windows and door hardware, thanks to its natural antimicrobial properties (Oligodynamic Effect).
The metallurgy of Brass (Cu-Zn). Adding Zinc (up to 40%) hardens pure Copper without losing its formability, while the continuous release of Cu²⁺ ions guarantees a self-disinfecting surface vital for hospital architecture.
The symbol material of Déco and rationalist architecture. Brass is not just a 'golden metal', but a sophisticated engineering alloy that balances copper's malleability with zinc's rigidity, enabling ultra-thin profiles impossible to achieve in aluminium.
Brass is a substitutional alloy: in the crystalline lattice of pure copper, zinc atoms (up to 40%) take copper's place. The standard architectural alloy (Muntz Metal 60/40) lowers the melting point for complex extrusion, dramatically increases tensile strength and hardness versus pure copper, and lightens the reddish colour to the classic golden hue.
Uncoated brass reacts with oxygen, humidity and atmospheric sulphides, forming a compact natural protective patina that seals the core metal — unlike iron rust which flakes off. Contemporary architecture exploits factory-accelerated chemical burnishing with acid baths to instantly achieve dark bronze or flat black finishes, extremely resistant to scratches in high-traffic areas.
European and international references applicable.
The Oligodynamic Effect: uncoated brass releases Cu²⁺ ions that destroy the cell membrane of bacteria, viruses and fungi (including MRSA) within hours. It is the only structural material EPA-certified for handrails and door handles in hospitals. WARNING: in marine or chlorinated environments, use Naval Brass or bronze to prevent dezincification.
Minimalist extruded profiles combining historic aesthetics with ultra-thin sections of very high inertia.
PRC.27 · Open the processPress-bent sheets (often pre-oxidised) used as ventilated cladding in museum or luxury projects.
PRC.21 · Open the processPivot hinges, panic bars and locks: primary use thanks to the intrinsic antimicrobial effect of uncoated alloy.
Flat strips historically used to create geometry and absorb expansion in Venetian terrazzo floors.
PRC.60 · Open the processBrass's success in luxury windows derives from its high elastic modulus. A brass profile needs almost half the width of an aluminium profile to resist the same wind pressure without deflecting.
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