My organic chemistry project : making an iron gall ink.

[amk]

Superb experiment. In woodworking, I use similar materials for darkening/ebonising wood; strong tea (tannin) as a wash to make the wood receptive, then iron filings in vinegar to provide the dark stain.

Vinegar is also useful for removing rust. Old plane blades get a two day swim before being cleaned up with wire wool, as do chisels and other tools from flea markets. I did once manage to leave a small iron piece from a clock in the vinegar for two weeks, and what happened was interesting; pitting opened up in streaks, showing where the metal had been folded over during the forging process. Fortunately I had a replacement part available.

[HoLmeslice]

This was a very fascinating thread. Great job and very cool.


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