Oxalic acid

[MM5AHO]

Cleaned the topsides today, ready for the water soon.
I use a brew of oxalic acid and Fairy Liquid in water. Works fantastic.

But I can't figure the chemistry. Why does it work?
What is the yellowing on white fibreglass? Why does oxalic remove it?

 

[VicS]

Cleaned the topsides today, ready for the water soon.
I use a brew of oxalic acid and Fairy Liquid in water. Works fantastic.

But I can't figure the chemistry. Why does it work?
What is the yellowing on white fibreglass? Why does oxalic remove it?

I reckon its for those who understand the chemistry involved to know and for others to marvel at.

 

[theotter]

The yellowing is basically limescale so being an alkaline the acid takes it off. Vinegar would probably do it as well. Proprietery hull cleaners are basically ready mixed oxalic acid.

 

[charles_reed]

I reckon its for those who understand the chemistry involved to know and for others to marvel at.

I'm surprised at VicS's coyness!!
As a chemist, I'd expect him to be foremost in detailing the process.
Basically oxalic acid is another antioxidant agent, particularly effective with organic/Fe+++ staining.
My memory of the precise chain is lost in the mists of time and 55 years of non-use.
Like ascorbic acid, used in food preservation, it is a monosaccharide redox, breaking down the cell wall of organic material.
As an acid it's about x3000 the strength of acetic acid and acts on ferric compounds as a chelating agent.

 

[silver-fox]

Ok, you asked for it

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxalic_acid

Must admit I am curious to know why they don't compare its strength to (say) sulphuric or hydrochloric acid.

 

[Jassira]

I'm surprised at VicS's coyness!!
As a chemist, I'd expect him to be foremost in detailing the process.
Basically oxalic acid is another antioxidant agent, particularly effective with organic/Fe+++ staining.
My memory of the precise chain is lost in the mists of time and 55 years of non-use.
Like ascorbic acid, used in food preservation, it is a monosaccharide redox, breaking down the cell wall of organic material.
As an acid it's about x3000 the strength of acetic acid and acts on ferric compounds as a chelating agent.

that a lot clearer now, thanks