Evapo-Rust Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to remove rust using Evapo-Rust?
The time varies by the depth of the rust. Very light surface rust only takes 30 minutes. However, very deep rust may require an overnight soaking.
Can I paint on Evapo-Rust to remove rust?
No, that method will not work effectively.
Does Evapo-Rust harm paint?
No, painted surfaces are not a problem. Just avoid paints with oxides.
Is Evapo-Rust safe with plastics and rubber?
Yes, it is safe on both plastics and rubber.
What size containers of Evapo-Rust are available?
We carry Evapo-Rust in 1 gallon, 5 gallon and 55 gallon sizes.
Why do some of my parts have a black coating after I have de-rusted them?
The black coating is sometimes present after de-rusting carbon steels. This coating can easily be wiped off with a cloth or pad.
Do I need to clean my item before I soak it in Evapo-Rust?
While it isn't necessary to clean the item, cleaning the dirt off of your item will speed in the removal of rust and help the Evapo-Rust last longer.
How do you know when Evapo-Rust is spent?
Evapo-Rust will turn black and will not remove any more rust.
How does Evapo-Rust work?
Unlike other rust removers that use some type of acid to remove rust, Evapo-Rust works without acid. It will not attack the base metal, and it is safe to use. Evapo-Rust works through selective chelation. This is a process in which a large synthetic molecule forms a bond with metals and holds them in solution. Most chelating agents bind many different metals. The active ingredient in Evapo-Rust bonds to exclusively to iron. It will remove iron from iron oxide but is too weak to remove iron from steel where the iron is held much more strongly. Once the chelating agent has removed the iron, a sulfur bearing organic molecule pulls the iron away from the chelator and forms a ferric sulfate complex which remains water soluble. This frees the chelating agent to remove more iron from rust.
Can I use Evapo-Rust to remove corrosion on other metal such as aluminum or brass?
No. In fact that is reason Evapo-Rust is so effective in removing rust. It is selective and will not damage or remove oxidation from other metal.
Does Evapo-Rust contain acids?
Evapo-Rust has a pH of 6.1. This is almost completely neutral. To give you a better idea of how that compares to other common item, a pH reading of 7 is the same as pure water. A pH reading of 1 is a strong acid, while a pH reading of 14 would be a strong alkaline. To put this scale into perspective, rain water generally is around 5.6 and Coca Cola is roughly 3 to 4.
At what temperature can I use Evapo-Rust?
You can use it as low as 50 degrees, but we recommend using Evapo-Rust at or above room temperature for fastest rust removal.
Will Evapo-Rust remove the base metal?
No, as explained above Evapo-Rust is too weak to remove iron from steel and will not effect the base metal.
Can Evapo-Rust be diluted to make it go further?
No, it is shipped at the correct concentration, diluting it will not make it go further and will make it less effective.