Glassy enamels in architecture: a sustainable alternative for the future of construction

A study by the Department of Industrial Engineering explores the potential of enameled panels as a durable, aesthetic, and eco-friendly solution for building cladding.

In the context of construction that is increasingly attentive to environmental sustainability and material durability, the research conducted at the DII offers an innovative perspective on the use of panels coated with glassy enamel. The study focuses on three solutions:

• enameled steel,
  
• enameled aluminum,
  
• composite panels (enameled steel with an aluminum honeycomb core).
  

The goal? To evaluate their long-term technical and environmental performance, and to compare them with traditional solutions currently used in architecture, particularly panels with organic coatings.

Why talk about enameled panels?

Enameled coatings are attracting growing interest due to their:

• very high resistance to weathering,
  
• longevity,
  
• low maintenance,
  
• aesthetic value with color and gloss retention,
  
• and contribution to sustainability in line with modern building directives.
  

Enameled panels represent an eco-conscious alternative for facades and architectural surfaces, offering long-term benefits also in terms of overall operating costs.

A five-phase analysis

The research carried out at the DII adopts a multidisciplinary, systemic approach, structured into five macro-areas:

1. Market analysis
   A comparative study between enameled panels and other materials (at the European and global level), considering performance, durability, and costs.
2. Study of materials
   Focus on the properties of steel, aluminum, and strategic raw materials, with evaluations of environmental and economic impacts.
3. Production and logistics
   Analysis of enameling industrial processes, the required energy, and the impact linked to transporting raw materials and panels from production to installation.
4. Life cycle and recycling
   Environmental assessment based on LCA (Life Cycle Assessment), including recyclability of materials and reduction of CO₂ emissions through the use of recycled raw materials.
5. Comparison with painted solutions
   Multiple simulations over a 50-year horizon to compare hidden costs (maintenance, replacements) between enameled and painted panels.

The results: more expensive at first, but winning over time

The research concluded that, despite higher initial costs, enameled panels offer:

• greater longevity,
  
• resistance to weathering,
  
• and a reduction in long-term environmental impact, resulting in lower annual product life costs.
  

The main drawback? Energy consumption during production and some recycling challenges, which require future technological improvements. However, the path is clear: these materials can become a key element in more sustainable construction.

Focus: What are porcelain enamel coatings?

Enameled panels are metal surfaces (such as steel or aluminum) covered with a layer of glassy enamel, obtained by fusing mineral oxides at high temperatures (830–850 °C). The result is a hard, glossy coating, resistant to weathering, scratches, corrosion, and UV radiation.

Where are they used?
Traditionally employed in household appliances and urban furnishings, in flue systems, sanitary ware, and chemical plant engineering, they are now finding new applications in architecture: facades, cladding panels, and decorative elements.

Why are they interesting?

• Durable aesthetics (bright colors, customizable finishes)
  
• Minimal maintenance
  
• High long-term resistance
  
• Compatibility with sustainability criteria, especially when combined with recycled materials
  

An ancient technology returning to the spotlight… in a modern key.

IMAGES

Fig.1:
Enameled panel seen in cross-section (steel substrate at the bottom) showing three enamel layers: the ground coat, which promotes system adhesion, and two enamel coats.

Cover image:
Mixtures of ground ceramic powders (“frit”) used to produce enameled panels.