Lithofin Rust-EX

Rust rings under balcony chairs, orange streaks on a kitchen worktop, and iron-rich water spots on porcelain tiles all ruin an otherwise perfect finish. One ready-to-use application of Lithofin Rust-EX eliminates the oxidation before it sets permanently.

What Rust-EX Does

Rust-EX is an acidic cleaner for natural stone, ceramic, and porcelain. At pH 1.5 it converts insoluble ferric oxide into water-soluble ferrous salts. A built-in indicator turns the liquid violet within 2 minutes, confirming the reaction. Wetting agents carry the solution 2-3 mm into porous stone, so the rust lifts out without heavy scrubbing.

When to Use

• Polished marble vanity with a metal perfume-tray ring - apply undiluted.
• Granite patio showing iron spots from lawn furniture - apply undiluted.
• Bathroom porcelain tiles stained by iron-bearing well water - apply undiluted.
• Sandstone facade with old steel anchor marks - pre-wet, then apply undiluted.
• Any surface listed on rust-stain guide - spot treat undiluted.

How to Apply

1. Mask adjacent acid-sensitive areas and pre-wet very porous stone. Using a brush or dropper, place Rust-EX directly on the rust until it is fully covered.
2. Wait 5-15 min; the liquid turns deep violet. Agitate lightly with a nylon brush if the stain is heavy.
3. Rinse twice with plenty of clean water, then neutralise residues with a mild alkaline cleaner if required.

Typical coverage: 50 ml removes a 5 cm diameter rust ring; actual use varies. Surface can be resealed after 2 h drying.

Surface Compatibility

Excellent results on granite, slate, basalt, ceramic, porcelain, and clinker because these acid-resistant materials (Mohs 5-7) tolerate the low pH without etching. Good performance on sandstone, concrete, terracotta, cotto, and glass-mosaic when pre-wetted to slow acid penetration. Do not use on large areas of polished marble; restrict to spots and rinse immediately.

Choosing the Right Product

For ongoing stain protection after rust removal, use MN Stain-Stop. For grease, wax, or general soiling before sealing, clean with MN Power-Clean.

Pro Tips

• Always neutralise with an alkaline cleaner to stop residual acid from re-activating rust - prevents shadowing.
• On very porous stone, repeat a short 5 min application instead of one long dwell to avoid edge darkening.
• Seal cleaned areas within 24 h to block moisture that can carry new iron particles back into the pore structure.