How to Clean Corroded Aluminum With Hydrochloric Acid

Aluminum is one of Earth’s most plentiful metals and can last structurally for up to 30 years. But if the protective coating is compromised, the aluminum will form rust and gradually corrode. The corrosion must be cleaned off as soon as possible, so it doesn’t eat entirely through the metal. Hydrochloric acid, also known as muriatic acid, cleans corrosion from metals through a heat-transfer process. The first step in cleaning an item with acid is to take precautions to protect yourself from accidental splashes.

Thick work clothes
Rubber gloves
Safety glasses
Filtration mask
Rubber tub
Hydrochloric acid
Paint stirring stick
Garden hose

Instructions

- 1
  Put on thick work clothes with long sleeves and pants. Cover your hands with rubber gloves, and put on safety glasses and a filtration mask.
- 2
  Place a non-reactive rubber tub outdoors, in a well-ventilated area.
- 3
  Mix a solution of 20 parts water to 1 part hydrochloric acid. It's important to pour the water into the rubber tub first, and then slowly add the acid, being careful not to splash it. Mix the solution with a paint stirring stick.
- 4
  Place the corroded aluminum into the solution. Allow it to set submerged for about 10 minutes. You'll see bubbles releasing from the corrosion as the acid removes it from the aluminum.
- 5
  Remove the aluminum from the solution, and rinse it thoroughly with ample amounts of water from a garden hose. Let the aluminum air-dry completely before touching or using it.
- 6
  Repeat this process with a solution of 10 parts water to 1 part acid, if the corrosion remains on the aluminum item.

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