[meteorite-list] Simplified Meteorite Rust treatment

From: David Hardy <mdavidhardy_at_meteoritecentral.com>
Date: Thu Apr 22 09:46:21 2004
Message-ID: <20010501174636.3682.qmail_at_web13804.mail.yahoo.com>

Hi Steve,

Will this work on uncut irons?

David


--- meteorites_at_space.com wrote:
> Over the years I have been experimenting with various methods of neutralizing
> FeCl3 and NiCl3 (Cl2 also) in meteorites.
>
> Now I have found that it can be done with 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol right
> off the drug store shelf, and Red Devil lye (sodium hydroxide).
>
> Use as much isopropyl to cover the specimen in a glass or tupperware
> container, then add a teaspoon of Red Devil lye, or as much as the solution
> can absorb. If after a few days the first teaspoon dissolves, then add a bit
> more. This can be done with or without the specimen in the solution.
>
> Let the specimen soak in the container (covered) for a week or more. Don't
> be alarmed to see rusticles (sort of like those on the Titanic) forming.
> This is a clear indication that the chemical reaction is taking place, and
> the Cl is being absorbed by the Na in the solution, and the OH is attaching
> in its stead to the Fe forming a non corrosive FeOH and or NiOH. (These are
> the "rusticles" that you see)
>
> If during this time you see that the solution is turning rust brown, pour it
> and add fresh 70% isoproypl and another dash of Red Devil lye. After a week
> or two. Remove the specimen from the solution and allow it to dry. After a
> few days lightly sand it to remove the rusticles, then set it uncoated for a
> week or more to see if it still bleeds chlorides of iron or nickel. If it
> does, repeat the process for another week or more.
> I have found this process to work well with Mt. Dieu, Brahin, Brenham, Canyon
> Diablo, Campo del Cielo, and other rusters. With pallasites, the crystals
> will sometimes rise a bit in their sockets, but once dry the FeOH that holds
> them will turn into tougher iron oxides. Sanding it down will make the
> surface level again. And I have found that after the light sanding, a day or
> so additional soak of pallasites is a good idea. Then dry and polish
> afterwards. For the really stubborn specimens, I will be working on a simple
> electrolosis addition to the above mentionned solution. This involves using
> a battery and a good resistor to create a small current that will drive the
> Cl ions out of and away from the meteorite. Will post as soon as I test the
> idea and get some solid results. Steve Schoner, American Meteorite Survey;
> http://www.geocities.com/american_meteorite_survey
>
> ___________________________________________________________________
> Join the Space Program: Get FREE E-mail at http://www.space.com.
>
> _______________________________________________
> Meteorite-list mailing list
> Meteorite-list_at_meteoritecentral.com
> http://www.pairlist.net/mailman/listinfo/meteorite-list


__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Auctions - buy the things you want at great prices
http://auctions.yahoo.com/
Received on Tue 01 May 2001 01:46:36 PM PDT