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Techniques for CollectorsHow do you dispose of iron out?

30th Oct 2017 23:17 UTCKimberly Strawbridge

I want to make sure that I get rid of the iron out properly and wondered how to do that. Is it something to just pour down a drain, or toilet. Or do I pour it out on the ground? I don't want to do anything ecologically wrong.


Kim

31st Oct 2017 00:12 UTCSteve Hardinger 🌟 Expert

Down the drain. In fact the product was originally marketed to remove iron stains from toilet bowls.

31st Oct 2017 01:21 UTCKimberly Strawbridge

Thank you! I feel much better knowing that is o.k.

31st Oct 2017 01:54 UTCHarold Moritz 🌟 Expert

One of several reasons it is better than oxalic acid. The latter is rather toxic and not safe for septic systems.

22nd Nov 2017 20:45 UTCJohn Lawson

These propriety iron removing compounds are generally based on a citrate salt which unlike oxalates are non-toxic.

Hence any reasonable method is Ok.

If you are using oxalic acid it must be neutralised, as with any of the mineral acids that you might be using in the removal of interfering minerals.

One simple way is to have some forms of Calcium Carbonate on hand.

eg Calcite, limestone, marble, etc.

When you need to remove the acid you just put into the bath of, now weakened acid, any of the listed materials and wait until there is no sign of any gas being released.

When you reach this stage, the acid is neutralised and can be disposed of.

I must add in order to make sure this reaction is completely over, there must be excess Calcium Carbonate, left on the bottom of the container..

23rd Nov 2017 01:37 UTCDoug Daniels

To follow up on John's note, if you use a form of calcium carbonate to neutralize whatever acid, it is best to use a powdered form - it will react quicker, and likely be more effective. Such forms can be found at your local gardening center/hardware store/Home Depot/etc. Either powdered limestone, or powdered dolomitic limestone - either should work, although if you can get just plain old limestone, so much the better.
 
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