S235J2: Low-Temperature Carbon Structural Steel (EN 10025)
EN 10025-2:2019 · Published: 2026-06-01 · Updated: 2026-06-02
S235J2 is the low-temperature variant of the basic S235 structural steel, with guaranteed Charpy V-notch impact toughness of 27 Joules at -20°C. The J2 designation ensures reliable performance in cold climates without brittle fracture risk....
S235J2 is the low-temperature variant of the basic S235 structural steel, with guaranteed Charpy V-notch impact toughness of 27 Joules at -20°C. The J2 designation ensures reliable performance in cold climates without brittle fracture risk. Compared to S235JR (impact-tested at +20°C only), S235J2 is specified for outdoor structures in regions with freezing winter temperatures, dynamically loaded structures, and primary structural members in bridges and buildings where brittle fracture would be catastrophic. The chemistry is essentially identical to S235JR; the difference lies in the mandatory low-temperature impact testing and the resulting quality assurance provided to the designer.
Quick Facts
| Category | Carbon Steel |
| Standard | EN 10025-2:2019 |
| Density | 7.85 g/cm³ |
| Yield Strength | 235 MPa (34 ksi) |
| Tensile Strength | 360-510 MPa |
Global Equivalents & Cross-Reference
| Alternative Standard / Grade | Action |
|---|---|
| Q235D | Compare |
| SS400 | Compare |
| A283 Gr D | Compare |
| St37-3N | Compare |
| E235 | Compare |
Related Materials
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Frequently Asked Questions
When should S235J2 be specified instead of S355J2?
Choose S235J2 when low-temperature toughness is required but the higher strength of S355 is not needed—for example, secondary members (purlins, girts), architectural steel exposed to cold climates, or stiffness-governed designs where 235 MPa is sufficient. S355J2 provides the same -20°C toughness guarantee with 50% higher yield strength for strength-governed designs.
References & International Standards
- ASTM International. Standard Specifications for Steel & Metal Alloys. astm.org
- International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Metallic Materials — Cross-Reference Database. iso.org
- American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). Steel Grade Designations & Equivalents. steel.org
- European Committee for Standardization (CEN). EN Steel Standards & Numbering System. cencenelec.eu