Question about iron graphitization

[Keith S]

Hi all. I recently found a CS 12 pdr common shell in a freshwater creek that I believe is slightly acidic with tannic acid as the water is reddish. The shell had a very thick crust and is unusually light. I did 24 hours of low amperage electrolysis and took it out of the bath. There is not a lot of pitting and the ball is relatively smooth but the iron is quite soft which I assume means there is a fair amount of graphitization.

So, my questions are, after a hot wax bath to remove all the moisture:

1. Will a graphitized shell stabilize?
2. Should I run it in electrolysis longer to ensure the acid is no longer present?

Hoping to hear from The Cannonball Guy

Thanks in advance,
Keith

 

[Davers]

Hi all. I recently found a CS 12 pdr common shell in a freshwater creek that I believe is slightly acidic with tannic acid as the water is reddish. The shell had a very thick crust and is unusually light. I did 24 hours of low amperage electrolysis and took it out of the bath. There is not a lot of pitting and the ball is relatively smooth but the iron is quite soft which I assume means there is a fair amount of graphitization.

So, my questions are, after a hot wax bath to remove all the moisture:

1. Will a graphitized shell stabilize?
2. Should I run it in electrolysis longer to ensure the acid is no longer present?

Hoping to hear from The Cannonball Guy

Thanks in advance,
Keith

Good ? 'IMO' .

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