Durability Debunked: Do Metal Awards Really Rust? 🏆

Understand the chemistry behind award aging. Discover which metals are prone to rust and how RS TROPHY utilizes high-grade alloys to provide permanent recognition solutions.

The Chemistry of Oxidation

Rust occurs when iron reacts with oxygen and water — any award containing high levels of unprotected iron is at risk. **The culprit** is budget-grade steel trophies often used in the past, which lacked the protective coatings needed for long-term display. **The environment** matters too: high-humidity regions, such as coastal Thailand, accelerate this natural reaction significantly. Understanding which metals corrode is the first step to specifying an award that will look fresh decades later.

High-Grade Alloys and Protective Finishes

RS TROPHY has transitioned to materials that naturally resist oxidation. **Zinc Alloy (Zamak)** is the industrial standard — it doesn't rust like iron but develops a protective oxide layer that maintains structural integrity for decades. **Stainless Steel** is naturally resistant to corrosion and acid, ideal for permanent outdoor plaques. **Industrial plating** uses advanced electrolyte baths to coat awards in gold, silver, or bronze, creating an airtight barrier. Most pieces are then finished with a clear, automotive-grade lacquer — an invisible shield that locks out moisture and prevents fingerprints from etching the surface.