Dad Science: Rust Removal Electrolysis

Dad Science: Rust Removal Electrolysis Try this 5-minute science experiment with your kids this weekend. It’s fun, educational, and teaches real electrical principles.

A 5-gallon bucket electrolysis tank with a car battery charger connected to rebar and a rusty tool.

Rust Removal Electrolysis

Man, don’t throw that wrench away. And definitely don’t spend three hours hitting it with a wire wheel until your hands are vibrating.

You can strip that rust off while you sleep. We’re going to build an electrolysis tank.

The Setup: Grab a 5-gallon bucket and fill it with water. Dump in a cup of Washing Soda (Arm & Hammer makes it—it’s in the laundry aisle. Don’t use Baking Soda; it’s too weak).

The Rig:

  1. The Sacrificial Anode: Clamp a piece of scrap iron or rebar to the side of the bucket. This is going to eat the rust.

  2. The Patient: Hang your rusty part in the middle. Do not let it touch the rebar.

  3. The Power: Hook up a manual car battery charger (12V).

    • RED (Positive) goes to the Scrap Iron (Rebar).

    • BLACK (Negative) goes to the Rusty Tool.

The Result: Flip the switch. It’s going to bubble like a witch’s cauldron. Come back in 4 hours. The rust will wipe off with a rag. It’s the most satisfying thing you’ll do all weekend.

Note: Do this outside. It makes Hydrogen gas. Don’t blow up your garage.

#rocketcity #huntsvilleelectrician #huntsville #toolrestoration #electrolysis

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