Rusting and Painting

• Painting is a popular method used to prevent rusting
• The structure to be painted is cleaned using an acidic solution
• This removes existing rust and dirt
• Sand paper/scrubbing material  is also used to clean the surface to be painted
• The surface is then left to dry
• Once it is dry a coat of paint is applied
• The paint prevents oxygen and water from coming in contact with the iron
• By forming a protective layer on top of the iron
• If the paint chips the iron must be repainted
• Painting is especially used to protect large structures
• Such as bridges and pylons
• Because is if effective but cheaper than metal plating

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