First hot bluing attempt (update: more projects)

maddtrappr said:
Can ammonium nitrate be used instead of potassium nitrate?
Click to expand...

Yes, it is strong oxidant (NH[SUB]4[/SUB]NO[SUB]3)[/SUB] and it can and it is used in bluing process. Some formulas call for some parts of NaNO3 and some parts of NH[SUB]4[/SUB]NO[SUB]3.

Also KNO3 can be and it is used in industry.[/SUB]
 
Last edited:
Originally I was planning to use ammonium nitrate, actually from Tannerite, as it's fairly easy to get. Unfortunately, Tannerite also contains ammonium perchlorate (I think that's the name) and I wasn't sure how it would react or if the perchlorate would have any negative effects on finish, so I opted out of using it and went for the potassium nitrate.

Ammonium nitrate is also more hazardous to mix. When you add it to water, it gives off ammonia gas. Just something to be aware of.
 
ssapach said:
Ammonium nitrate is also more hazardous to mix. When you add it to water, it gives off ammonia gas. Just something to be aware of.
Click to expand...

It is perfectly safe to mix it with water which results in endothermic reaction therefore it is used in sealed instant cold packs.
 
I only said it's more hazardous because of the ammonia gas. Not something I'd want to mix 5 gallons worth indoors, for example.
 
if i glass blast the parts to blue would it make the surface too rough to blue?
i'm talking about automotive glass crushed for sand blasting.
it works great with parkerizing because of the rough surface.
 
Best source for potassium nitrate (KNO3) is a hydroponic supply store(at least here in BC) . Still used for making fertilizer and you can get a 30kg bag no problem. Sort in cool DRY spot will last long time , still working on the one I got 2 years ago
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom