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Formulation Card

FC-9.5-M

Light rust remover

Ingredients

Ingredient% w/wFunction
Phosphoric acid (85%)15.0–25.0Primary acid, rust converter
2-Butoxyethanol2.0–4.0Penetrant, co-solvent
SLES (28%)1.0–2.0Wetting agent
Benzotriazole (BTA)0.1Corrosion inhibitor
Deionized waterto 100Carrier
Colorant0.002Safety

Formulation Notes

Iron oxide rust stains are addressed through a conversion reaction unique to phosphoric acid:

Rather than dissolving rust, phosphoric acid converts it to ferric phosphate (), an inert, adherent layer that inhibits further oxidation and provides a suitable substrate for paint adhesion .

Target parameters: pH 2.0–3.0; viscosity 3–8 cP (thin liquid for penetration); phosphoric acid content 13–21% active.

At 20% phosphoric acid (85% solution, ~17% active), surface rust converts to within 10–20 minutes at room temperature; reaction kinetics increase with temperature . 2-Butoxyethanol improves acid ingress into porous rust layers. After treatment, the darkened phosphate layer should be rinsed; for aesthetic restoration, light abrasion removes the gray film. Not for use on aluminum, zinc, or galvanized surfaces.