Copper cleaning acid?
vinigar should work but whatever acid you use you'll have to let it sit for a little while.... muric acid at the hardware store is like 35% HCl and will be much stronger...
if you want to really clean the copper once the gunk is gone add in some 95% hydrogen peroxide...
if you want to really clean the copper once the gunk is gone add in some 95% hydrogen peroxide...
check hardware stores.. muriatic acid is often used for cleaning cement... your closest 'home hardware' will have it for sure.... if you find 35% HCL by weight its some heavy duty ...
ie, you might want to use safty goggles...
ie, you might want to use safty goggles...
Last edited by Haunz; Feb 21, 2007 at 02:47 PM.
Any strong acid or etchant will attack the metal and the corrossion that is there should just dissolve into solution.... if you add hydrogen peroxide to your acid you get an etchant and the reaction will probably go alot faster then acid alone... just don't expect it to be instant, you will have to dip the parts in solution and wait especially if they are heavilly corroded
I've used sulphuric acid + hydrogen peroxide as homebrew circuit board etchant, HCl should work even better... just, BE CAREFULL... and always add the acid to whatever you are mixing it with...
I guess there are also commercially available etchants like ammonium persulfate if you don't feel like screwing around you can probably order a 16oz bottle on line for $20 or $30....
I've used sulphuric acid + hydrogen peroxide as homebrew circuit board etchant, HCl should work even better... just, BE CAREFULL... and always add the acid to whatever you are mixing it with...
I guess there are also commercially available etchants like ammonium persulfate if you don't feel like screwing around you can probably order a 16oz bottle on line for $20 or $30....
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That stuff is pretty harsh. Basically you need a mild acid. Vinegar and Ketchup should both work but it's slow. For something you are going to find easily, try Brasso. It's a metal polish specifically for copper and copper bearing metals like brass. While in that section of the store, see if there is anything else suitable. You have to invest in some effort here too - it's not just a spray and wipe.
If this is for something more substantial like copper buss bars, I would hit it with 120grit sandpaper and then get finer from there if you want a polished look rather than a satin.
If this is for something more substantial like copper buss bars, I would hit it with 120grit sandpaper and then get finer from there if you want a polished look rather than a satin.
