Keeping your valuable metal objects rust free, is an extremely important step to maintain and extend their lifespan. Naval Jelly is a great DIY aid to clean rust from metal surfaces. The procedure to use it is very simple, and we shall go into it in detail in the following HomeQuicks article.
Did You Know?
It is said that Naval Jelly was used during World War II to remove rust from naval ships, earning the product its unique name.
Naval Jelly Rust Dissolver is a very popular and effective product manufactured by the Loctite Corporation. It is used to remove rust from various metal objects within a few minutes. It is extremely easy to use and can be found at most hardware stores or home improvement centers.
The gel is made of phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, phosphate ester, isopropyl alcohol, polysaccharides, and water. This means that the product can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Let us now look at the correct procedure to use Naval Jelly to remove rust effectively from your metal valuables.
How Does Naval Jelly Work
Loctite’s Naval Jelly contains around 30% phosphoric acid, which alters rust molecules and changes them into iron phosphate, which is soluble in water, making it easy to wipe off from the metal. However, due to the strong concentration of the gel, one must not allow the gel to remain on the metal for more than 15 minutes. This is because overexposure to the gel may cause streaks and tiny pockmarks on the metallic surface, which may damage the look or utility of the object.
How to Use Naval Jelly Rust Remover
Equipment Needed
- Thick plastic/rubber gloves
- Face mask
- Safety goggles
- Wire brush
- Old toothbrush
- Steel wool pad
- Disposable cloth
- Primer and Paint (optional)
- Paintbrush/roller (optional)
- Naval Jelly
- Plastic Sheet
Directions
- First set up the area in which you are going to work. Spread the plastic sheet on the ground to protect from the gel, and wear all your safety equipment.
- Using the wire brush or steel wool, rub out as much dirt and loose rust from the metal surface as you can. Wipe the area with a clean dry cloth.
- Using a paint brush, generously apply the gel to the rusty metal. Use the toothbrush to get the Naval Jelly into corners and crevices.
- Allow the gel to rest for around 10-15 minutes, but no more. The gel will work on changing the rust into a water-soluble paste during this time.
- Take a clean, wet cloth and clean out the Naval Jelly thoroughly from the metal item. Now take a clean dry cloth and dry the metal.
- Check the metal for any remaining rust. Perform the cleaning procedure again if needed.
- Apply primer and paint on the object if necessary, to prevent rust from reoccurring.
Safety Precautions
- Naval Jelly is a toxic hazardous substance, hence it needs to be kept away from children and pets.
- The gel is harmful to the environment. Make sure you have a safe method of disposal for any waste matter. A good way to do this is to add soda ash to the gel, which acts as a neutralizer.
- It is important to follow all safety instructions on the Naval Jelly container, and wear the necessary safety gear.
- Use Naval Jelly only in well-ventilated areas, as its fumes are very harmful to the respiratory system.
- If some of the gel falls on your skin, wash immediately with generous amounts of soap and water.
- If the gel enters your eyes, wash thoroughly and immediately consult a doctor.
- If you swallow some of the gel, do not try to vomit. Instead drink lots of water, and seek immediate medical attention.
- Naval Jelly is not suitable for objects made of chrome, aluminum, cement, marble, plastic, or fiberglass.
This product is indeed very effective and useful. To learn more about the LOCTITE® NAVAL JELLY RUST DISSOLVER and other related DIY home care products, check out their official website. Please share your experiences about using Naval Jelly rust remover in the comments section below.