You have several options if you’re wondering how to remove rust from metal. These products include Naval Jelly, WD-40, Citric acid, and aluminum foil. These products can be applied to the affected area to dissolve the rust. Then, rinse with water and dry.
Naval Jelly
Loctite Naval Jelly Rust Dissolver is an original rust treatment formula that effectively removes rust and bluing from metal surfaces. It is a heavy-duty formula that is ideal for heavily rusted items. It also removes bluing from steel.
Naval Jelly contains phosphoric and sulfuric acids, phosphate ester, polysaccharides, and water. It can be hazardous if not used properly, but it is very effective if used according to directions. To use this product, follow the instructions on the packaging.
Once applied, Naval Jelly can easily remove rust from metal surfaces. The phosphoric acid in the jelly dissolves the rust molecules. It then turns them into iron phosphate, highly soluble in water. Once this happens, it is easy to wipe off the rust-covered metal surface. However, the high phosphoric acid concentration means the jelly can leave tiny pockmarks and streaks on the metal.
Another option is Iron Out. This rust-removal product is biodegradable and effective on most metal surfaces. However, this product may cost more than other options.
WD-40
When it comes to removing rust from metal surfaces, WD-40 is a great option. This lubricant, initially developed for the aerospace industry, can safely remove surface rust without damaging the metal’s surface or removing paint. Its rust-resistant formula is also nontoxic and biodegradable.
It works by dissolving the rust on metal surfaces and restoring them to bare metal. This solution is safe for most metals, including chrome parts, and is non-toxic and biodegradable. After soaking the rusted object in the lubricant, you can rinse it off.
Although WD-40 was initially intended to displace water, it does work well as a light lubricant and short-term corrosion prevention. It contains mineral spirits, but it is not formulated as penetrating oil and does not break up corrosion, as well as dedicated products. However, it is a good choice for a last-minute solution when your metal surfaces are rusted.
Another solution for removing rust from metal is citric acid. It dissolves rust and forms a paste. You can use aluminum foil, or metal brushes dipped in the solution to scrub the metal surface. This method is inexpensive and can work well to remove rust from metal.
Citric acid
Citric acid is a common household ingredient. It is a natural substance found in many fruits and vegetables. It is also environmentally friendly, as it can be flushed down the drain and is safe to use. It can be purchased in brewing supply stores as crystals and in health food and kosher stores as sour salt. Before using citric acid, make sure that you wear rubber gloves and long sleeves to protect your skin.
For DIY projects, you can use citric acid to remove rust from metal. You can mix two parts of citric acid with one of the water. Put your metal in the solution and soak it for about twenty minutes or an hour. Once the solution dries, scrub off the solution using steel wool or a wire brush. Repeat the process as necessary until the rust has been removed. However, if the rust has penetrated too deeply, use a different method or use soap and water to remove the rust from your metal.
Citric acid is a weak organic acid that can remove rust from metal. It does not corrode iron as quickly as a more vital organic acid, but it does chelate the iron oxide, making it much easier to remove. It can also be used to clean toilets and drains. It is available over the counter in low concentrations and works well for cleaning drains and metal surfaces. It has a neutral pH range of 0-14 and is safe for human contact.
Aluminum foil
Rust can appear on the aluminum foil that you use to wrap items. It would help if you always used the shiny side when scrubbing the rust. Scrub hard until all traces of the rust are removed. Once the rust is removed, you can wash the aluminum foil as usual.
Aluminum foil is a versatile household item used for many household chores. It can be used to remove rust and even restore the shine of a chrome surface. The foil should be cut into small squares for the best results. You can use the foil to wipe down the rusty area or to fill in the area.
Another common way to remove rust from metal is to apply steel wool. However, this method is less effective because steel wool will weaken the metal and leave it brittle. Also, steel wool will splinter and cause cuts, leading to infections.
