Q&A for How to Acid Wash Aluminum

Aluminum reacts with hydrochloric acid in a single-displacement reaction resulting in aqueous aluminum chloride (a salt) and hydrogen gas. The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is 2Al(s) + 6HCl(aq) -> 2AlCl3(aq) + 3H2(g).

To remove oxidation from aluminum, mix equal parts water and either lemon juice or vinegar and lightly scrub the aluminum with this mixture. The acidic nature of the lemon juice and vinegar remove rust by converting iron (III) oxide to a form that can dissolve in water.

You can use mild commercial dish soap/detergent and a steel wool pad to clean aluminum. Make sure to be gentle when using the steel wool pad so you don't damage the aluminum.

You will want to remove the acid as quickly as possible. To do this, run cool water over the area that has come in contact with the acid. If it is a large part of your body, you should use a shower to rinse your whole body. Rinse until you cannot feel the acid (it will feel soapy) on your skin anymore.