Equatorial Guinea's geography, characterized by extreme humidity and salt-laden air from the Atlantic coast, presents a severe environment for traditional low carbon steels. Standard carbon steels often suffer from rapid oxidation, leading to high maintenance costs for oil and gas infrastructure and urban bridges.
The local market is currently transitioning from importing generic prefabricated components to demanding specialized mild low alloy steel. This shift is driven by the need for materials that can withstand the relentless precipitation of the Gulf of Guinea without requiring frequent repainting.
Currently, the reliance on imported high-grade alloys is high. However, the demand for corten steel sheets has surged in architectural projects in Malabo and Bata, where aesthetics must meet industrial durability in a rainforest climate.
