Secondary Rust Spots on Mosaic Arabesque Tile Backsplash
Causes of Rust Spots
Rust spots on mosaic arabesque tile backsplash occur due to various factors during mining, processing, transportation, installation, and use. The primary causes include:
1. Direct Rust Contamination:
- Rust penetrates the marble mosaic through exposure during handling and installation.
- Iron particles left on the surface oxidize over time, leading to yellow rust spots.
2. Environmental Factors:
- In acid rain-prone areas, rainwater dissolves iron-containing materials (e.g., dry hangings, scaffolding) and transfers rust to the marble mosaic surface.
3. Chemical Reactions (Integrative Rust Spots):
- Exposure to strong acids (e.g., hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid) dissolves iron in the marble.
- This forms an iron-containing solution, which penetrates the marble mosaic and later oxidizes into rust stains.
Types of Rust Spots & Treatment Methods
1. Intrinsic Rust Spots (Difficult to Remove)
- Rust originates within the marble itself, making complete removal challenging.
- Since iron is naturally present in the marble, full extraction is not possible.
2. Surface Rust & External Contamination (Easier to Remove)
- These rust spots form due to external iron exposure and can be effectively treated.
Rust Spot Removal Process
Step 1: Cutting & Blocking
- Isolate the rust source by removing contact with iron and moisture to prevent further oxidation.
Step 2: Releasing Protection
- Remove any existing protective coatings to allow rust removal agents to penetrate the surface.
- For solvent-based (oil-based) protective agents: Use degreasing cream or DEC21.
- For water-based protective agents: Use DEC21.
Step 3: Targeted Rust Removal
- Use specialized marble rust removers such as:
- Marble rust remover
- Granite rust remover
- MAR, NO RUG, etc.
