Use simple electrolysis to turn your iron relics into treasures

Electrolysis is a simple process once you understand how it works.

That being said, don't forget that you are using water and electricity so BE CAREFUL!!! Do not touch any part of your setup without first unplugging your electrical connection. There are 2 "simple" types of electrolysis. I have one system that is a phone charger cord that I cut off the end that plugs into the phone.

I then separated the two wires from each other and then stripped the plastic off of the copper.

Connect each wire to an alligator clip.

Then connect one clip to a stainless steel object (I use a dollar store spoon because the stainless steel item will disintegrate eventually) and the other clip to the rusted object.

Put both clips into a container with a salt and water solution. DO NOT LET THE RUSTED AND STAINLESS STEEL OBJECTS TOUCH! Plug in the charger cord, and watch. The rusted item will start bubbling. If it does not, Either the connection is not good or you have the wires connected the wrong way. MAKE SURE TO UNPLUG THE CHARGER BEFORE TOUCHING ANYTHING IN THE WATER!!!! Once the rusted object is bubbling, you are "cooking". To start out, try a rusted nail.

They cook quicker, and you will figure out how long you need to leave the system on.

When the object is done. Take it out and wire brush the cooked crust off.

If you have left it in long enough, there should be no rust left.

You are done. The other system is easier because you use a car battery charging system.

Connect the positive cable to the rusted object, and the negative cable to the stainless steel object.

All other steps are the same. The solution you put the objects into is either salt and water, or baking powder and water.

The salt solution will smell like rotten eggs while cooking, the baking soda will not.

The choice is yours. I suggest you play with both and see which one you prefer.

Here is an example of an unidentifiable piece of iron before and after the process.

This, again, is your choice. Try it on an object and see if it is what you like.

Electrolysis is the best way to preserve your fine iron relics.

Electrolysis is not our only useful tip. Go to JustGoMetalDetecting.com.