BlasterClean : The Soda Blasting Specialists

What is soda blasting?

Soda blasting is a process where a surface is cleaned, rust is removed, or coatings (of any kind) are stripped from the substrate (the surface beneath the material you are trying to remove). The soda blasting machine propels a bicarbonate-of-soda-based media via water or compressed air onto the surface to be cleaned. This process gently removes the material without harming the substrate and can be done wet or dry.

How does soda-blasting work and what are the advantages over sand blasting?

The sodium bicarbonate used in the blasting process is a larger particle than the baking soda used in the food industry, although it is the same purity. The particles are propelled by compressed air through specialized blasting machines. Air pressures can be varied from as low as 20 psi on soft bases to 120 psi or more on hard surfaces. Water is used as either a dust suppressant or the propellant for some decontamination and paint removal. For surfaces that are somewhat softer, such as wood, water reduces the cutting action by as much as 20 to 30 percent. Unlike abrasive sand blasting, sodium bicarbonate particles remove contaminants by the energy released when the particles explodes as they come in contact with the surface to be cleaned. Silica sand on the other hand, removes the material by wearing it away. This is also the results when the sand hits the metal surface, the metal is worn away and the surface is damaged.

How was Soda Blasting developed?

What about the heat build-up that happens when sand blasting?

There is no heat build up with soda bicarbonate. Since there is no heat buildup, warp-age is eliminated. Its nonflammable properties allow sodium bicarbonate to be used for cleaning in the petroleum industry where other methods could not be used. Sodium bicarbonate breaks down hydrocarbons, which makes it an excellent method of cleaning engines and engine parts, or other areas where oil and grease are present. Static electricity is a by product of using high pressure air and where soda blasting reduces the amount produced, there is still a need to properly ground a metal object when using any blasting media. However, soda bicarbonate does not produce electrical sparks the same way that sand striking metal does. Another major advantage is the fact sodium bicarbonate does not break the surface tension of metals, thus the problem of flash rusting is eliminated Bicarbonate of Soda is also a rust inhibitor which leaves a protective coating on the surface being blasted. This allows for time to pass before the surface has to be repainted. This is unlike a sand blasted surface that must be repainted immediately.

Would soda-blasting work on graffiti removal?

The removal of graffiti is a difficult and costly operation using just about any conventional method. Sodium bicarbonate provides a very viable alternative to these methods. Since it is a nonabrasive media it can be used to remove graffiti from painted surfaces, in some cases without damage to the base paint. On wood, brick, sandstone, marble and other sensitive surfaces, it will remove the graffiti without leaving any evidence of its use behind. With the use of a wet blasting system, you would be providing a dust free method of cleaning. Naturally, care must still be taken when setting the pressure, airflow, and media flow as damage can still occur from improper application. Testing in a non-visual area is still a good idea.

How do I clean up after I am done, and what about waste disposal?

Sodium bicarbonate has a pH of 8.6 and can be disposed of in most wastewater treatment systems. Disposal regulations should always be followed, as this will vary depending on the contaminant being removed. Paint chips and other material removed that are not water soluble can be separated by dissolving the spent media and using a filtration system. Normally only the hazardous material removed needs to be disposed of in special areas. Sodium bicarbonate can be further neutralized by either a vinegar/water solution, Citric Acid solution (less then 3 % acid to water) or just water dilution.

Is Bicarbonate Soda or Potassium Sulfate environmentally safe?

As safe as it comes. Of course let’s be honest, if you dumped a whole bag of bicarbonate on a plant, it will die. Plants around a remodeling job should be protected and you will need to wash an area down with water during the clean up process. As explained earlier, for heavy concentrates, you may need to add vinegar to the water as a form of neutralizer. The environment is completely safe, including the waterways and your clients’ grass and plants. Mosquitoes and their larva seem to be affected by bicarbonate soda, but that is the only insect that appears to be affected.