When any metal remains in contact with water for longer period of time it goes through a

chemical reaction termed as oxidation. This reaction causes the metal to corrode which break

up the metal into dusty reddish-brown material referred to as rust. This dusty material which

settles upon a metal is formed by an oxide named hematite, and one other layer formed inside

is of iron oxide named magnetite. The upper surface of metal is often covered by a fat layer of

rust particles, which gradually tears off; this exposes the internal surface of metal to a corrosive

location. Whereas in some kinds of metals the layer of rust doesn’t tears off, which are not easy

to remove, and thus it shields the metal from getting corroded further.

To keep the surface of the metal dry is the most excellent method to tackle with rust. It is quite

well-known that such prevention cannot always be implemented. In the market there are lots of

solutions and remedies to take care of rust. But certain rust removal materials are composed of

chemicals that are hazardous for the environment, Humans as well as pets. Therefore,

everyone needs to carefully pick the product of removing dust. For which one can take the help

of the Internet or some experienced person. But there are some simple and harmless proven

approaches to get rid of rust.

Some Simple Means in Removing Rust

1. Scrubbing — When the surface of a metal gets rusty scrubbing can be simple and easy

way to prevent rusting. A wire brush, steel wool and sandpaper are the unsurpassed

means for scrubbing or sometimes tin foils bundled together can also serve the purpose.

After scrubbing applying some grease or similar kind of wax can work out good, if the

rusting is not that deep. But, if the rusting has deepened than its better to remove the

rust flakes that are on the outside, and then proceed with the relevant process.

2. White vinegar — To get rid of rust that is rigid or firm the use of white vinegar can solve

the problem. This ingredient is regularly used in a house which is an acetic acid by

nature. Its acidic properties are capable of dissolving the rust. It can be poured straight

into the areas having rust or using a piece of cloth it can be wiped over the surface. After

the rust dissolves the rust ridden items should be soaked properly. The vinegar might

harm the item if it is left unattended.

3. Baking Soda — An element that is able to clean plenty of different kinds of messes can

be used in rust removal also. A paste is to be prepared by mixing baking soda with

water, and then it should be adequately thick so that it bonds well to the surface rusted.

The paste applied should be left there for some time. It should be then scrubbed off with

a wire brush or steel wool.

4. Lemon Juice — Lemon juice with bit of vinegar makes a solution which quite strong. It

aids in keeping a surface of metal free of rust besides giving an aroma of citrus. One

other approach is spray over some crude salt upon the rust and then put some lemon

juice atop. Without leaving it for too long, clean off everything from the surface otherwise

it could be damaging.

5. Potato — This friendly vegetable does possess the properties of oxalic acid, which is

good in dissolving rust. The easiest way to let the process take place is to put in the

rusted object inside the potato and leave it for some time. The second option is to slice

the potato and scrub it all over the surface that is rusted. To add some extra influence

sprinkling some baking soda or bit of salt can be also done.

6. Cola — One of the most commonly used products that can help in removing rust is cola.

Cola and similar other beverages carries alarming quantity of phosphoric acid. Putting

the small rusted objects into the cola can clean up the rust or pour the cola over the area

of rusting and then clean it. But sometimes cleaning the cola from the surface can get

difficult.

After performing all basic rust removal steps one must make sure that all the surfaces are dried

up. With having not done so it will be like allowing it to get in touch with rust again. Most objects

or materials after getting treated from rust should be given a coat of paint. Many such materials

always remain in contact with dampness so putting some primer or painting it would be better

prevention.

Couple of Other Strategies in Removing Rust

Other than all the strategies discussed above to get rid of rust there exists two basic methods:-

1. Mechanical,

2. Chemical,

In the first strategy, abrasive or coarse particles are streamed onto the rusted surface. Thus, the

oxides of rust are removed and the surface of metal becomes rough enough to be fit for

painting. Nevertheless, this strategy is not always applicable because of the size of the rusted

object or sometimes the requirement of those particular instruments.

In the second strategy, acids similar to Phosphoric are chemically reacted with the iron oxides

and altered into more firm object like the black ferric phosphate.

The Conclusion

Getting rid of rust is no more a big issue. Rust removers can be found in large varieties in the

market. They can get rid of rust from any object, from anything. But before acquiring any such

rust removing alternatives it is always advised to do a detailed study as these products

comprises of numerous chemicals. Chemical based rust removers can cause harmful effects

upon the health of humans as well as on the environment. Therefore, proper usage and suitable

maintenance can avoid rusting of objects that are prone to rusting. As the saying goes

“Prevention is better than cure”, so preventing rust may be less costly than curing it.