Lead is a highly reactive metal and is prone to oxidation when exposed to air. This means that the lead reacts with oxygen in the air, forming a layer of lead oxide on its surface.
Oxidation can decrease the purity of your lead ingot, as the oxide layer can contain impurities that were present in the air. It can also make the ingot more brittle and difficult to work with.
There are several ways to prevent or minimize oxidation of your lead ingot. One method is to store it in airtight containers to limit its exposure to oxygen. Another is to coat the ingot with a protective layer, such as oil or wax.
Yes, the oxide layer can be removed through a process called pickling. This involves soaking the ingot in a solution of acid, such as vinegar or lemon juice, which will dissolve the oxide layer. However, this may also remove some of the lead, so it is important to be cautious and follow proper safety precautions.
The number of times you can reuse a lead ingot without it becoming too oxidized depends on various factors, such as the purity of the lead and how it is stored. With proper storage and handling, lead ingots can be reused multiple times before the oxide layer becomes too thick and affects the quality of the lead.