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How To Remove Rust Stains From Exposed Aggregate

Writer Gabriel Cooper

In most cases, the staining comes from Pyrite that is in the aggregate. It is possible to remove the stain by using a dilute mixture of iron stain removal (or muriatic acid, but it’s not as dependable as the more expensive solutions). However, to stop the staining from happening again, it is necessary to eliminate the aggregate particle that caused the problem. The single aggregate particle must be removed from the concrete with the masonry bit, and then use epoxy or cement to put a new aggregate particle to be inserted. Ironstone (which is a form of ochre, not Pyrite) is extremely frequent in certain areas (such as Northern Alberta). Limits of 0.8 percent to 1.0 percent weight in coarse aggregate can be used to control pop-ups, but it is not economically feasible to eliminate. The industry that makes ready-mixed concrete locally in Alberta is working on an acceptable standard for tolerance; however, the tolerance will differ from place to location. 

Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Aro... Silky Terrier Dog Breed Playing Around

A single pop out for each driveway panel (about 10-x-10 feet) is being suggested. To accomplish this without damaging the leather or creating streaks on the material, you need to determine the issue aggregate analysis of the petrographic data will be required. 

This method (especially employing the Petrographic Number that was created through Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation) Ministry of Transportation, Ontario) can provide valuable information for a low price. You can also have an examination done with scan electron microscopy. (One lab we’ve heard of that can conduct the test using just an extremely small sample size can be found at DCM Science Labs, Wheat Ridge, Colo.)

Baking soda and laundry detergent can be combined to remove rust stains in concrete—mix baking soda and laundry detergent in a 1:1 ratio.

You’ll need the following supplies:

  • Baking soda
  • Laundry detergent
  • Bowl
  • Spray bottle
  • Make a paste with enough water
  • Mixing spoon large
  • Paintbrush
  • Hard bristle brush

 

How to get rid of rust from concrete:

  1. Make a mix of baking soda and laundry detergent in a 1:1 ratio.
  2. Mix it with enough cold water until it has the consistency of a paste.  
  3. Mix in enough cold water until you have the consistency of a paste.
  4. Combine dry ingredients with water to create a paste.
  5. Make use of a paintbrush for spreading the over the stain of rust.
  6. Cover the entire stained area by applying the paste mixture.
  7. Let the paste sit on the stain of rust for about 1 hour.
  8. Make sure the paste is kept wet by spraying the paste with water to stop the paste from hardening.
  9. After hour After an hour, add a cup of water and thoroughly scrub it with an elongated bristle cloth.
  10. Rinse with water, and repeat the process if needed.