Iron and steel varieties in building industry between 1860 and 1914 – A complex and confusing situation resolved

This paper dilates upon the developments and the evolution of the nomenclature of structural metals in the building industry during the period 1860–1914. When turning to 19th century literature, the iron and steel nomenclature and the corresponding properties are far from uniform and clear. However, in view of today’s ongoing rehabilitations, it is essential to thoroughly know and understand the evolution of structural metals and to distinguish their properties. By means of three diagrams on the production and treatment, the quality and the form, this article elucidates the above-mentioned shortcomings for both the former and present-day key role languages of communication on international conferences, namely French and English.