How to use Biox Gel

Biox remover is a fantastic option for cleaning precious metal items made from gold, brass and steel. Biox Gel removes rust, limescale, carbon and verdigris from your metal objects safely and effectively. Here's a breakdown on how to use it effectively:

Preparation:

1. Pre-cleaning: Similar to Biox Liquid, it's recommended to gently remove any loose dirt, debris, or grime from the object's surface with a soft brush or compressed air.
2. Protection: For areas you don't want the Biox Gel to touch, like wood or plastic handles (Biox Gel will not harm these materials), use masking tape or a protective coating like clingfilm to prevent inadvertent exposure.

Using Biox Remover:

1. Application: Biox remover being a Gel, can be applied directly to the affected areas. Apply a generous layer, around 2/3mm thick, using a brush or a gloved finger to the areas needing treating, or immerse smaller items in the Gel itself. Remove occasionally to review the cleaning process, the product can be reused many times until exhausted.
2. Warming (Optional): For improved cleaning efficiency, either gentle warm the item to be cleaned or you can gently warm the Biox Gel, the ideal temperature is around 20-30°C (68-86°F). Warming the product can be achieved by leaving the container outside in sunlight or placed on a heater ie. rest on top of a home boiler for a short time. Please bear in mind that the product is in a plastic container, so do not overheat and keep the lid sealed whilst heating, this prevents the Gel from drying out. Always check if the object you're cleaning can withstand such temperatures before proceeding.

1. Soaking Time:
• Light Rust/Tarnish: For very light rust or tarnish, soaking times can be as short as 15 minutes.
• Heavier Corrosion: For heavier rust, verdigris, or stubborn stains, soaking times may range from several hours to overnight (up to 8 hours). You can reapply Biox for longer periods if needed.
2. Monitoring: Unlike liquids, gels may take slightly longer to show results. Check on the object periodically to monitor progress. Biox may slightly darken the surface of some metals, so keep an eye out to avoid unintended effects.

After Cleaning:

1. Removal: Wipe away the Biox remover thoroughly with a clean cloth or rinse the object with clean water to remove any residue. Distilled water is recommended to minimize water spots on some metals.
2. Drying: Completely dry the object with a clean, soft cloth to prevent further corrosion or use compressed air / hairdryer.
3. Sealing (Optional): Apply a sealer to the cleaned surface can help prevent re-tarnishing. Choose a sealer appropriate for the specific metal you're cleaning ie. oil or wax, alternatively hermetically seal the item to prevent oxidisation.

Additional Tips:

• Reapplication: Biox remover can be reused until exhausted. If rust or tarnish persists after the initial application, you can re-apply fresh Biox or reuse the used product to complete the cleaning cycle. Do not let Biox Gel dry out, this is aided by using clingfilm over the treated area to prevent evaporation. The Gel may create a light crust as it dries out, this is best removed and reapply, rather than letting the product become completely dehydrated.
• Safety: Biox is advertised as safe and non-hazardous, but it's always a good practice to wear gloves and eye protection when handling any cleaning product. Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for specific handling recommendations.
• Delicate Items: For delicate or valuable objects, it's always recommended to test Biox remover on a small inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't cause any unintended effects.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean and protect your metal objects using Biox remover. Remember, if you're unsure about using Biox on a particular item, it's always best to consult a professional conservator.