What is it in molasses that does the derusting...... the potassium content??? and if so would not a weak potassium acid bath be cheaper, faster, less sticky and stinky without being lethal to the environment?????
Hi Bob,
Here is a link to just one of many explanations on how molasses and water works. Not necessarily to be taken as Gospel though. "Chelating" needs to be researched further. It may be safer than other caustic or acetic chemicals used for rust removal but that could just be the authors opinion.
His comments about pot metal, zinc castings, are correct though. Ditto for galvanized parts. It will remove galvanizing.
Environmentally it may be better too. Shipmates on chemical tankers told me that when they carried molasses in bulk they were even allowed to wash the tanks after discharging it and pump the slops into the sea. Apparently the fish loved it. With the strict regime of managing tank washing and recording it I doubt the authorities would allow it if it was extremely hazardous to the environment. It is, after all, a by product of sugar manufacture and we all know how good sugar is for us!
http://www.homercidal.com/molasses/
Cheers