Can someone tell me

[sasnz]

Can someone tell me why old bullets that come out of the ground are white. Is this an oxidation from the lead??

 

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[goldencoin]

yes, it is lead oxidation, otherwise known as "lead rot" (doesn't actually rot)

HH
-GC

 

[sasnz]

GREAT!! Just learnt something new

Cheers

 

[diggummup]

Lead becomes "unstable when it is in contact with water (moisture) and air. It corrodes and forms CERRUSITE or HYDROCERRUSITE, which is the white coating commonly seen on old bullets. In all actuality,the hydracerrusite slows the corrosion of the lead.

 

[RON (PA)]

I just learned something new too. Thanks diggumup.