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Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

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Lead-effect coating of Cast Iron

I have a cast iron figure in a fountain (boy with dolphin) to which I want to apply a 'lead finish' or 'lead effect surfacing'. (lead = the metal, Pb). Are these finishes achieved by a chemical application or by by an electroplating technique? The use of lead acetate solution as a surface application by immersion with, or without, a galvanic circuit is the only potential method I can think of. Are there other techniques? Also, am I going to be able to produce any lead acetate solution I might need from lead sheet immersed in vinegar [in bulk on eBay or Amazon]?

Idris Hughes
- Snowdonia, North Wales, UK
2002

You can get a leading polish from good hardware shops - just like the Victorians used in their grates. It is cheap and very messy but gives a pleasant semi glossy finish. Just ask for "leading polish for grates".

Trevor Crichton
R&D practical scientist
Chesham, Bucks, UK
2002

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