Black rust

Greybeard · 15th April 2010, 08:28 AM

Sirek, Kronckew, thank you both for your suggestions.

p.s. - black iron oxide is an alternative form of rust to the more destructive red rust we all hate. rust bluing is/has been used to produce a nice blue/black protective coating on steel, and the black ferrous oxide coating is somewhat protective against red rust, and is the major component in the patina steel aquires over the years. removal of black rust or patina from antiques may lower their value.[/QUOTE]

I think it will be best to leave the "black rust" alone and just plane off the high spots with a brass scraper. My home-made brass tools have always been very useful for a gentle (red/brown) rust removal without harming the patina.

Heinz

15th April 2010, 08:28 AM	#5
Greybeard Member Join Date: May 2009 Location: Switzerland Posts: 124	Sirek, Kronckew, thank you both for your suggestions. p.s. - black iron oxide is an alternative form of rust to the more destructive red rust we all hate. rust bluing is/has been used to produce a nice blue/black protective coating on steel, and the black ferrous oxide coating is somewhat protective against red rust, and is the major component in the patina steel aquires over the years. removal of black rust or patina from antiques may lower their value.[/QUOTE] I think it will be best to leave the "black rust" alone and just plane off the high spots with a brass scraper. My home-made brass tools have always been very useful for a gentle (red/brown) rust removal without harming the patina. Heinz