We've been doing this work for years, with a string of conservators of  
varying degrees of skill and training.  I just don't have a specialist  
on staff at the moment and have a cluster of problems that require  
specific advice.  The post has attracted several excellent responses.
PEM

On Apr 23, 2009, at 1:50 AM, Ron May wrote:

Patrick,

You really need a conservator lab to run electrolysis and expect a  
serious issue with disposal of the waste "water" by product, as it is  
rated by the EPA as hazardous. The cost of remediation has to be  
considered in your budget.

Or, you can borrow your son's Lionel train transformer, hook up a few  
wires to your metal, and dump it in a plastic tub of distilled water  
and step back. No, seriously, get a professional conservator!

Ron May
Legacy 106, Inc.


-----Original Message-----
From: Patrick Martin <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask]
Sent: Wed, 22 Apr 2009 10:32 am
Subject: Electrolysis advice


We are struggling a bit with electrolysis of some massive cast iron  
pieces and would really appreciate an opportunity to discuss with an  
expert. While I know that there are lots of labs doing this work, I am  
not personally familiar with any of the technicians. Any suggestions  
would be gratefully received.?
PEM?
Patrick E. Martin?
Professor of Archaeology and Chair?
Department of Social Sciences?
Michigan Technological University?
Houghton, MI 49931?
phone 906-487-2070,email [log in to unmask]
www.industrialarchaeology.net?

Patrick E. Martin
Professor of Archaeology and Chair
Department of Social Sciences
Michigan Technological University
Houghton, MI  49931
phone 906-487-2070,email [log in to unmask]
www.industrialarchaeology.net