VMZINC® The sustainable architectural metal

2 3

A long-standing tradition

A broad range of VMZINC products for building applications

VMZINC has developed a large range of rolled products (sheets and coils) and transformed

products. This extensive range of products and systems reflects our wealth of professional and

practical experience and the variety of climates and standards that VMZINC® is designed to

meet worldwide.

VMZINC products and systems can be divided into four main areas of application:

• Facade

• Roofing

• Ornamentation

• Interior decoration

VMZINC®: almost 200 years of history

In Greece and Egypt, the use of zinc since Antiquity has been proven with the discovery of

jewellery and funeral urns.

1830: After developing an original production process, an imperial decree was granted

to Jean-Jacques Dony to mine the zinc ore deposit at La Vieille Montagne, near

Liège, in Belgium. The “Société des Mines et Fonderies de Zinc de la Vieille

Montagne” was created in 1837.

1853: The “Compagnie Royale Asturienne des Mines” was founded.

1922: First electrolysis in Viviez.

1980: Development of roofing and cladding systems and service offers.

1987: The “Compagnie Royale Asturienne des Mines” and “Vieille Montagne” merge to

become “Vieille Montagne France”.

1993: “Vieille Montagne France” joins the Union Minière group and creates the brand name

VMZINC in 1994.

2001: Union Minière group becomes Umicore group.

4 5

Remarkable benefits

Natural Expression

Natural Protection

The warm grey expression of zinc undoubtedly explains why it is

chosen to be used in elegant and exceptional architecture. In fact, this

expression results from the natural reaction between the zinc surface

and the atmosphere. We call this grey layer Patina.

With the addition of mineral pigments to the pre-weathering process

of zinc, colored zinc are available. Contrary to the paint coating on

other metals, the natural texture of pre-weathered zinc is preserved.

Patina not only contributes to the extraordinary appearance of zinc but

also protects the zinc from further corrosion and acidity. This brings

natural protection to zinc.

Durable: life span of 70-100 years

VMZINC is an exceptionally durable material with natural corrosion

resistant property. Newly rolled zinc develops a patina on the surface

when it is exposed to the atmosphere. This patina slows down further

zinc corrosion.

Low maintenance

VMZINC is a low maintenance material. There is no need for a protec-

tive coating, such as paint or varnish to be applied. Zinc continues to

develop patina throughout its life and will self-repair imperfections

and scratches.

AestheticsVMZINC offers a wide range of distinctive and original surface aspects.

This warm, luminous, highly expressive material responds freely to

the play of light, its colours shifting to reflect the changing hues of

the sky.

Because of its natural, semi-mat and mineral aspect it lends itself

to the creation of an often original but always happy marriage with

other materials: wood, brick, cement, glass, etc.

Non-toxicZinc is a non-toxic material which broadly exists in nature. As an es-

sential trace element, zinc is also vital to biological equilibrium and

growth.

Protecting ore reserves

Zinc is potentially 100% recyclable. Together with its self-protecting

principle, the life span of rolled zinc is exceptionally long. For these

reasons, using VMZINC contributes to limiting the consumption of ore

reserves.

Lower energy consumptionFor metals used in building, such as copper, aluminium or stainless

steel, the amount of energy required to manufacture rolled zinc prod-

ucts from ore is the lowest in the market. This contributes to the re-

duction of greenhouse gases and the protection of energy resources.

Clean InstallationRolled zinc installation is quick and pollution-free as it generates

very little scrap and waste. Pollution factors on the building site are

limited.

MalleabilityArchitects have unlimited creativity which can be perfectly expressed

with VMZINC. The material is applied in strips and can therefore adopt

any shape. It can be bent to fit curves with low radiuses and form

complex shapes which are difficult to realize with other materials.

Zinc resolves a large number of design issues and allows interesting

treatments of corners and angles. Architects appreciate this versatility

which allows them great freedom of expression in designing the roof

and facade of a building.

A variety of supporting systemsZinc allows a varied range of construction layouts and the manage-

ment of complex details that are impossible to realize with other

materials. To customize architects’ design requirements, VMZINC

developed supporting systems, from traditional standing seam, to flat

lock panel, interlocking panel and cassettes.

Natural Green

Harmonious Versatile

Individual House, Belgium, Stekke & Fraas

Mercat de les Flors, Spain, Willy Müller

Public Library, Spain, EMBT

ZAC Armor office, France, LESCOP

6 7

A recognized sustainable material

LEED SystemThe Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a North-

American system for the environmental evaluation of buildings. It is

the most widely used system in the world and the model on which

most new systems are based.

The Centre for Academic Research (CARE) at the University of Cincin-

nati houses some of the most technically advanced laboratories and

teaching spaces in the United States. This building obtained the LEED

certification gold level.

One of the main environmental characteristics of this building con-

tributed to the award is that 95% of the site waste, including VMZINC

rolled zinc was recovered and made available for recycling.

The Green Star systemThe “Green Star” system is an Australian cer-

tification system intended for architects and

their clients that aims to promote the design

and construction of buildings that respect

the environment. The level of environmental

performance is expressed by the number of

stars awarded.

With its “6 stars”, the Melbourne Exhibition

Centre receives the highest level “Green

Star” certification for environmental design

and construction. It also won first prize in the

“Public Building and Urban Design”category

at the Australian “BPN Sustainability Awards”.

The use of sustainable materials and equip-

ment such as VMZINC solutions for facades

and roof gives credits to the environmental

performance.

In a context of increasing collective awareness of the major climate change issues and the potential contribution of the building industry to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, VMZINC is firmly committed to environ-mental excellence. An eco-design approach has been adopted, aiming to reduce the environmental impacts of each new product or solution that will be put on the market.

As a notable environmentally-friendly product, VMZINC is considered to be a green product contributing to various recognised sustainable building certifications such as LEED in the USA and the Green Star system in Australia.

We illustrate two project examples in which VMZINC products contribute to sustainable development.

ZINC & Living organisms

Zinc is an essential element for all living organisms. Zinc is necessary and indispensable for

human, animal and plant life. Zinc is the 3rd most important metal element for humankind

after magnesium and iron.

ZINC & Energy Consumption

Rolled zinc production requires very little energy. The amount of energy required to pro-

duce zinc from ore is the lowest compared to the energy needed to make other non fer-

rous metals used in building applications (aluminium, copper, stainless steel).

ZINC & Recycling

Zinc is potentially 100% recyclable and 98.3% of old rolled zinc is effectively recycled in

Europe. The success of rolled zinc recycling is due to a very well organised recycling mar-

ket.

ZINC & Durability

Rolled zinc products in building applications have a very long life due to the self-protecting

property of zinc. In Europe, there are numerous examples of zinc roofs renovated after

about 100 years of continuous service.

Centre for Academic Research, U.S., Harley Ellis Devereaux and Studios Architecture

Melbourne Exhibition Centre, Australia, Woods Bagot and NH Architecture

8 9

Pre-weathered QUARTZ-ZINC® and ANTHRA-ZINC® offer two different surface aspects. These are obtained by immers-

ing natural VMZINC in a solution which modifies the crystalline structure of the surface of the metal at a thickness of

approximately one micron. This treatment by phosphatization is a durable chemical conversion of the surface structure

of the metal.

Zinc combines beautifully with other materials. Whether it is used in renovation or new construction, traditional or contemporary designs, zinc is an elegant partner for many building envelope materials, blending with wood, glass, stone and other materials in complete harmony.

In order to ensure that the envelope of your building or renovation project meets your expectations, VMZINC offers a variety of finishes ranging from natural zinc to pre-weathered zinc.

QUARTZ-ZINC® has a quartz-grey appearance, from the start, similar to that of the natural patina normally obtained

after several years of exposure to the atmosphere.

ANTHRA-ZINC® is a dark grey zinc, often used with various materials because its charcoal aspect compliments this

combination.

PIGMENTO® range is based on QUARTZ-ZINC® to which mineral pigments are added, four colours are available. These

colours, with their subtly changing reflections, inspire new ideas and blend perfectly with other materials. The col-

oured finish preserves the natural texture of pre-weathered zinc.

QU

ART

Z-ZI

NC

AN

THRA

-ZIN

C

PIG

MEN

TO

blue

PIG

MEN

TO

gree

nPI

GM

ENTO

re

dPI

GM

ENTO

br

own

Radio and TV office, France

Exhibition Hall, Spain, Cesar Azcarate

Amphitheater, France, RACHDI - PARENT Architectes

Hotel, France, Jean-Louis Morlet

Office Building, France, PINGAT Architecture

Hospital, France, CRR Architecte

10

Key advantages

All shapes of Roofs and Facades: flat, curved,

sphere, conical, domes

• Popular traditional cladding technique • Use for roofs and facades • Offer great design flexibility • Weather proof system • Fast and easy to install

Double Lock - roof system

Single lock - facade system

Area of Application

Standard

Support

• must be rigid and continuous

• minimum pull-out strength of 50 daN for

each clip (fixed and sliding)

• the support must rest on at least 3 bear-

ing elements

Standing Seam Profile

Single Lock Standing Seam

Double Lock Standing Seam

Double Lock Standing Seam for Roof

Single Lock Standing Seam for Facade

* This illustration is for reference only.

* This illustration is for reference only.

Standing Seam

Seam Height 25 or 32 mm

Thickness 0.8 mm

Width 410 - 430 mm

Panel Length Max. 4 m

Seam Height 25 or 32 mm

Thickness 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm

Width 410 - 430 mm

Panel Length Max. 15 m

Pitches Min. pitch 3° (5%)

Fixing

Two types of stainless clips are used:

• Sliding clips

• Fixing clips

VMZINC PLUS is a unique solution that offers a

protective coating on the zinc sheet underside

to protect from possible problem due to lack

of ventilation. The protective coating is a 60

micron thick lacquer and applied to the zinc

underside in the company’s premises. This

solution offers risk free applications to non-

ventilated facades and roofs.

ZINC PLUS

Basic Principles

Cinema, Spain, Garcia de la Torre ArquitectosCollective Housing, France, TETRARC

Kennedy Town Swimming Pool, Hong Kong, TFP Farrells

CFA, France, Jean-Baptiste Robert Collective Housing, France, Atelier A

12 13

Wall cladding and very steep roofs (>60°).

Area of application

Fixing

There are two types of fixing elements:

• On the long side, a galvanised steel fix-

ing clip is used.

• On the short side, a galvanised steel fix-

ing strip is used.

Support

• must be rigid and continuous

• minimum pull-out strength of 50 daN for

each of the fixing systems

• the support must rest on at least 3 bear-

ing elements

Typical Joint

Flat Lock Panel for Facade

* This illustration is for reference only.

Key advantages • Versatile system with a traditional design • Horizontal,vertical and diamond shape • Locked with a single fold on all 4 sides

Flat Lock Panel

VMZINC PLUS is a unique solution that offers a

protective coating on the zinc sheet under-

side to protect from possible problem due to

lack of ventilation. The protective coating is

a 60 micron thick lacquer and applied to the

zinc underside in the company’s premises.

This solution offers risk free applications to

non-ventilated facades and roofs.

ZINC PLUS

Basic Principles

Thickness 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm

Width 100 - 375 mm

Panel Length Max. 3m

Standard

Apartment Building, Spain, Estudio Entresitio

Kindergarten, France, ARTEFACT M. Plantrou

Office Building, Czech, Jan Aulík, Jakub Fiser, Veronik Mullerová

14 15

All flat facades. On vertical walls (slope 90°)

and soffits. Can be used for both exterior and

interior applications.

There are two types of fixings

• hidden fixing

• visible fixing.

Under visible fixing, this fastening is used

in the case of high wind load pressure or in

some flashing areas where fixing has to be

reinforced. The self-tapping screws are fixed

directly inside the joint.

Support

Main structure: reinforced concrete wall or

steel structure.

Substructure: galvanized steel or aluminium

frame.

Interlocking Panel

* This illustration is for reference only.

Key advantages • Horizontal and vertical cladding • Aesthetics of open joint • Simple connection by an interlocking groove making it easy to install

Type 2Type 1

Typical Joint

Interlocking Panel

Basic Principles

Area of application

Thickness 1 mm

Width 200 mm - 300 mm

Panel Length0.5 - 4 m (vertical)0.5 - 6 m (horizontal)

Joint width 5 mm - 20 mm

Standard

Hotel ICON, Hong Kong, Rocco Design Architects

Villa, Spain, Blai Pérez

Carter Residence, New Zealand, Andrew Mirams

Fixing

16 17

Cassettes

Types of panelsThere are three types of panels under cas-

sette system: VMZ Mozaik, honeycomb panel

and composite panel.

Composite PanelComposite with VMZINC is a multilayered

panel made up of two sheets of zinc that are

0.5 mm thick and thermo-glued on either

side of a mineral-rich polyethylene core for

optimum reaction to fire.

* This illustration is for reference only.

Cassettes

Key advantages

Standard

Thickness1 -1.5 mm (VMZ Mozaik)

0.7 - 1 mm (Honeycomb)

0.5 mm(x2) (Composite)

Width Max. 950 mm

Panel Length Max. 4 m

Joint width 5 - 20 mm

Honeycomb PanelHoneycomb with VMZINC is a multilayered

panel made up of a zinc sheet, an aluminium

back sheet and adhesive bonded on either

side of a honeycomb core for extraordinary

flatness.

Support

Main structure: reinforced concrete wall or

steel structure.

Substructure: galvanized steel or aluminium

frame.

Flat facades.

Area of application

VMZ MozaikVMZ Mozaik consists of square and rectangu-

lar modules that are uniquely elegant thanks

to ingenious folds that provide continuity of

joints and make the jointing of these ele-

ments totally invisible.

This guarantees a facade with a streamlined,

structural design.

Technology Institute, Spain, JORNET-PICÓ-VICENT ARQUITECTOS

Apartment, UK, Watkins Gray International

Water Treatment Lab, Hong Kong, ASD

• Excellent flatness • Panels with large dimensions • Exceptional smooth ness and rigidity • Aesthetics of open joint

Basic Principles

18

Office building, France. Architect: Bureau Kermarec. VMZINC Standing Seam. PIGMENTO RED.

Office Extension, U.S. Architect: Dean Marchetto. VMZ Flat Lock Panel. PIGMENTO red, PIGMENTO blue, PIGMENTO green.

Lohas Park, Tseung Kwan O, Hong Kong. Architect: Hsin Yieh. VMZINC Standing Seam. QUARTZ-ZINC

VMZINC Exterior References

Punggol Promenade, Singapore. Architect: Look Architects. VMZ Flat Lock Panel. QUARTZ-ZINC

TIAA MRT Sanchong Station, Taipei, Taiwan. Architect: J.J. Pan and Partners. Composite panel in VMZINC. QUARTZ-ZINC

The Capitol at Lohas Park, Tseung Kwan O, Hong Kong. Architect: Hsin Yieh Architects. VMZ Standing Seam. QUARTZ-ZINC

Porter House, New York, U.S. Architect: SHoP Architects. VMZ Cassettes. ANTHRA-ZINC.

Kennedy Town Swimming Pool, Hong Kong. Architect: TFP Farrells. VMZ Standing Seam. QUARTZ-ZINC.

Collective Housing, Spain. Architect: Serra i Lopez. VMZ Interlocking panel. Pigmento blue, Pigmento green, Pigmento red

Private House, Sai Kung, Hong Kong. Architect: INARC Design. Honeycomb panel in VMZINC. QUARTZ-ZINC, ANTHRA-ZINC.

Felda Auditorium, Malaysia. Architect: BEP Akitek. VMZ Standing Seam. QUARTZ-ZINC.

Media Intermunicipal, Bonneville, France. Architect: Didier Onde Architectures. VMZ Standing Seam, VMZ Flat Lock Panel. QUARTZ-ZINC, PIGMENTO blue, PIGMENTO green, PIGMENTO red.

Office in University of Cartagena, Spain. Architect: José Manuel Chacon Bulnes VMZ Folded & perforated sheet. QUARTZ-ZINC.

Collective housing, Italy. Architect: STUDIO LPzR.VMZ Interlocking Panel. ANTHRA-ZINC.Church of Mas Peron, Italy. Architect: Studio Arch. Alberto De Biasio. VMZ Standing Seam. QUARTZ-ZINC

St Regis Hotel, Lhasa, Tibet. Architect: Denniston Architects. VMZ Batten Seam. ANTHRA-ZINC.

Earthquake Museum of Taiwan, Wufeng, Taiwan. Architect: Jay W. Chiu (A+B Design Group). VMZ Standing Seam. QUARTZ-ZINC.

Private House at Fudu Park, Singapore. Architect: Look Architects.VMZ Standing Seam. QUARTZ-ZINC.

Albert Tower, Belgium. Architect: YELLOWSTONE - PIERRE JohnVMZ Interlocking Panel. QUARTZ-ZINC

Shaw Fundation Symphony Stage, Singapore. Architect: CPG Consultants. VMZ Standing Seam. QUARTZ-ZINC.

23

Hotel ICON, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong. Architect: Rocco Design Architects. VMZ Interlocking Panel. PIGMENTO blue.

Aedas Beijing Office. Architect: Aedas. Honeycomb panel in VMZINC. PIGMENTO red.

UA Windsor Cinema, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong. Architects: AGC Design. Customized System, ANTHRA-ZINC

Office, Manchester, Great Britain. Architect: Reid Architects. VMZ Interlocking Panel. QUARTZ-ZINC

VMZINC Interior References

VMZINC: a noble, timeless material for interior decora-tion. With its contemporary style, streamlined design, sleek aspect and variety of shades, zinc is now an archi-tectural element that can be used to enhance spaces:

• entrance halls in offices, residential buildings,• hotels, • boutiques, • multimedia libraries……

Tianjin Drum Tower Area Renewal, Tianjin. Architect: URBANUS Architecture & Design Inc. VMZ Standing Seam. QUARTZ-ZINC.

Esplanade Theatre, Singapore. Architect: DP Architects. VMZ Standing Seam. QUARTZ-ZINC.

Individual Housing, Wuxi, China. Architect: Jackson Architecture. VMZ Standing Seam. QUARTZ-ZINC.

Church, Wanchai, Hong Kong. Architect: AEDAS. VMZ Standing Seam. QUARTZ-ZINC.

Office Building,Hoboken, Belgium. Architect: Conix, Architects. VMZ Standing Seam. QUARTZ-ZINC.

www.vmzinc.com, www.vmzincasia.cnvmzinc.hongkong@ap.umicore.com

Umicore Building Products - VMZINCUnit A-B, 19/F, @Convoy169 Electric Road, North Point, Hong KongTel: +852 2700 2260Fax: +852 2882 1990

VMZI

NC

Asi

an B

roch

ure

04/1

3 00

1 EN

1 -

200

0 cp

, -

Cove

r Pi

ctur

es, a

rchi

tect

s: C

onix

Arc

hite

cts.

| VM

ZIN

C®, i

s a

regi

stra

tion

mar

k of

Um

icor

e G

roup

.