Testing lead for Zinc content

[ghh3rd]

Since I learned that it's easy to test for Zinc using muriatic acid, I decided to test my various batches of ingots. I am going to give it a try tonight.

I have a question or two: is it just a drop of full strength acid? If Zinc is present, how much smoke/fumes should I see?

Thanks - Randy

[Bent Ramrod]

I would suggest that you don't need to test your ingots for zinc content. Using the method you are contemplating on the mixture wouldn't tell you how much of which is in what. It would be better as a quick test for the metals before they are already mixed together.

If you could cast your ingots in the first place there should not be enough zinc in them to worry about. The main characteristic of zinc-contaminated lead is that it is an uncastable slush.