Molasses to Remove Rust from 1920 Ford Model T Pistons

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on using molasses as a rust removal agent for 1920 Ford Model T pistons. Participants highlight the chemical processes involved, noting that molasses contains organic compounds that may act as chelating agents. Suggestions include using a sealed container to minimize oxygen exposure and considering the reducing properties of sugars in molasses. The conversation also references the Tollens test, which demonstrates the presence of reducing sugars.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of rust chemistry and oxidation-reduction reactions
  • Familiarity with chelating agents and their role in metal treatment
  • Knowledge of the Tollens test and its application in chemistry
  • Basic skills in conducting chemical experiments safely
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the chemical composition of molasses and its effects on rust removal
  • Explore alternative rust removal methods, including the use of sulfuric acid
  • Investigate the principles of oxidation-reduction reactions in metal restoration
  • Learn about the Tollens test and its significance in identifying reducing sugars
USEFUL FOR

Restorers of vintage vehicles, hobbyists in metalworking, and anyone interested in chemical processes for rust removal will benefit from this discussion.

kokolyia
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Hello all, I am currently doing research on the process of rust inhibition and removal using molasses but finding info is tedious (the process is slow as...) :) Anyways, does anyone happen to know the exact science and chemical processes. Any info is appreciated. I will also be posting the findings of my experiment on this site. I have a hold of two 1920 Ford Model T pistons that are caked in rust. These are going to be submerged in molasses for quite a while. I will be using molasses to de-rust the masses! (I know there is a pun!) Cheers!
 
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molasses? :DD
 
yes. Molasses indeed. In short, can anyone elaborate upon what (ex. citric acid, etc.) is produced when molasses ferments? Thanks!
 
thankz said:
first search:

Have you tried to search for "rust removal with molasses"? There are definitely people reporting it as working. What is the chemistry behind I have no idea, but it is an organic mixture that can contain some chelating agents, so I would not reject it just because it sounds funny.

An important thing to consider - I would keep parts and the solution it in a sealed container, to reduce amount of oxygen dissolving.
 
Some sugars are pretty good reducing species. Maybe you are reducing the oxides at the metal surface?

The Tollens test is a famous old reaction that used to be used to test for the presence of reducing sugars.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tollens'_reagent

You can make a lovely mirror with the silver reagent and a reducing agent:

 

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