How to Make Iron Rust

Iron is a very hard and durable metal that is often used in construction. However, iron left untreated is vulnerable to oxidation, which is the process of oxygen interacting with iron particles. As a result of oxidation, iron will form reddish or brownish flakes on its exterior -- rust. Rust will gradually break down iron and can cause holes to form in it. If you wish to witness rust forming on iron, all you need is a few basic materials.

Things You'll Need

• Hydrogen peroxide
• Spray bottle
• Rubber gloves
• Table salt
• Cloth

Show More

Instructions

1. • 1

     Pour hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle and spray an iron piece with it so the iron is liberally damp. Wear rubber gloves as a safety precaution.

   • 2

     Sprinkle table salt over the dampened metal. Rust should start forming very quickly.

   • 3

     Wipe down the iron with a cloth after it naturally dries, to remove the salt from the metal. The iron should have a lot of rust accumulated on it.