Electrolysis Electrode Question

[Tractorust]

I really hate to beat this dead dog anymore. But could someone please draw the line on this issue. Is it or is it not safe to use stainless steel for the sacraficial electrode???

Is galvanized metal safe to use????

Any thoughts are welcome. Thanks.

 

[Anonymous-0]

I find that stainless works much better. Lasts a lot longer.

 

[led]

I would use some other kind of metal, galvanized (hot zinc coating) gives off vapors, welders will tell you it makes them sick.
I have used vinegar, coke, electrolis ect. I find vinegar & water works best. It may not make a good show like elec does.

Led

 

[Joe M(GA)]

As with everything, the choice is yours, but why make something dangerous when using plain steel leaves something so safe you can poor it out in the yard?

This is a quote from one of my favorite electrolysis sites-

"Many people using the electrolysis method for rust reduction swear by stainless steel, stating (incorrectly) that it's not consumed, stays clean and seems safe.
Stainless steel is indeed consumed when used in the electrolysis process, although slowly. The main problem with using it is the hazardous waste it produces. Stainless steel contains chromium. The electrodes, and thus the chromium is consumed, and you end up with poisonous chromates in your electrolyte. Dumping these on the ground or down the drain is illegal. The compounds can cause severe skin problems and ultimately, cancer. Hexavalent chromate is poisonous. These compounds are not excused from hazardous waste regulations where household wastes are.
These compounds are bad enough that government regulations mandate "elimination of hexavalent chromate by 2007 for corrosion protection."

Does your electrolyte turn yellow? That's a sign of chromates.

If you have been using stainless steel for the anodes (positive electrodes), wear rubber gloves when working with or near the liquids. If you need to dispose of it, allow it to evaporate into powders and dispose of the powders in sealed containers during your local "hazardous waste clean-up days".

Best bet - don't use stainless steel no matter how tempting it is."

 

[John in Maryland]

I used to use stainless. It did turn the solution yellow which I'm told is chromates, nasty stuff. Now I use old disk brake rotors. They last a long time. Been using the same ones for three years now, they're pitted but still have a lot of metal left.

J.I.M.

 

[led]

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