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How to Remove Oxide from Iron Powder

Expose iron powder to the open air and soon, a red rust will form coating all the fine particles of iron. This oxide is called iron oxide. Over a short period of time, it will completely break down the iron powder. For this reason an iron powder has to be stored in an air-free, sealed container and all moisture must be removed.

Things You'll Need

Oxalic acid
Glass mixing container
Glass stir stick
Distilled water
Plastic gloves
Safety glasses
Litmus paper

Instructions

- 1
  Put on the safety glasses and a pair of gloves. Add some iron oxide powder to a glass container. Gently pour some oxalic acid into the iron oxide while stirring until the iron oxide is immersed in oxalic acid. Let it sit for 30 minutes with an occasional stir.
- 2
  Dip a piece of litmus paper into the acid mix. If the litmus paper turns red and there still is rust present, allow the mixture more time to react. If the litmus paper is neutral, drain as much acid from the iron oxide powder and inspect the powder to see if all the iron oxide (rust) has been removed from the iron powder. If there is still rust, repeat this procedure.
- 3
  Rinse the iron powder using an isopropyl alcohol once the rust has been removed. Spread out the moist iron on a paper towel in a warm, dry location and allow to dry. Occasionally stir the iron powder to speed up drying.
- 4
  Pour the dry powdered iron into a zip-top bag or glass container and seal to prevent contact with air and moisture.

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