I work in construction and have noticed that the paintwork on our site vehicles are getting rust stained within a month of exposure to our groundwater. The groundwater chemistry is saline (conductivity around 35000ms), pH ~ 5.7 and contains dissolved iron and manganese. I actually like the look of rust staining (patina) on vehicle paintwork. Best part is it can be cleaned off with a cutting compound or scourer pad if needed.
I am trying to replicate this type of effect with the hope of speeding up the process. It would be great to spray a solution onto the paintwork that only takes a few days to show signs of a patina paint and rust effect.
Note: This is not going to be like other rust activator liquids because we do not have an exposed metal substrate to oxidise.
My initial thoughts:
- Try to dissolve super fine 0000 grade steel wool in white vinegar solution. The vinegar should strip the oil coating off the wool. The problem is unless oxygen is introduced and thus oxidation occurs I can't seem to dissolve the steel wool. I could possibly grind the steel wool down so it is super fine or add a certain type of iron tablet.
- Add some manganese like this
https://www.bunnings.com.au/manutec-500g-manganese-sulphate_p2961522- Dilute the mixture with salt (sodium chloride) and tap water solution.
I want the water in the bottle to be mostly unoxidised and then when it is sprayed and the water evaporates, oxygen is introduced and the iron / manganese should rust on the paint surface.
I've even considered heating up the car panel with a hair dryer before applying.
Your knowledge and assistance will be greatly appreciated. I am not a chemist. My knowledge in this field is limited to google searches.
Thanks in advance