[VAC] Re: rust stain removal

["Carol and Oliver Filippi" <ofilippi@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Wink is dilute hydrofluoric acid - a reducing agent.  Be prepared to rinse
quickly with fresh water!

A milder, but effective reducing agent (reduces iron oxide to iron -
chemspeak) is oxalic acid, which comes as crystals (which look like rock
salt). Dissolve as much as possible in water (saturated solution) and apply
to the rust. Rinse thoroughly.  Oxalic acid is carried by large paint
stores.  Be sure to get oxalic acid not "substitute for oxalic acid".
Oxalic acid is also used as a mild wood bleach and to lighten discolored,
water stained wood.

Oliver Filippi