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Phosphatic rust remover

2002

In New Zealand we have a product named Bodytech rust remover. I have 2 questions regarding this spray-on phosphatic acid based rust remover.

1.Will the white to gray deposit left on the treated rust afford any protection against future rust?
2.Is it acceptable to paint straight onto the area after the rust remover has dried, if not what prior-to-painting treatment is required?

Marc de Breche
- Tauranga, New Zealand

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Hi, Marc. Your question is not about phosphoric acid, it's about a proprietary product which no one except the manufacturer knows the composition of. Maybe some other user has some personal experience with it, but even then it might have been formulated differently at the time he bought it. Your most reliable guide is the manufacturer. Good luck.

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
2002

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2002

This sounds similar to the phosphoric acid-based naval jelly ⇦this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] (R) product available in the US.

1. The white deposit may be silica filler and neutralization products. The base coating left is an gray iron phosphate. It provides only temporary protection against rust.
2. After the rust removal reaction is complete (no visible bubbling for 5-10 minutes), wash off any neutralization salts (and gel agents, filler and surfactants) with clean water and let dry before painting.

Ken Vlach [deceased]
- Goleta, California
Finishing.com honored Ken for his countless carefully researched responses. He passed away May 14, 2015.
Rest in peace, Ken. Thank you for your hard work which the finishing world, and we at finishing.com, continue to benefit from.