Best Value
$0.73/oz
Positioned as a professional-tier product for detailers who want an all-in-one solution for iron removal and clay work. The lubrication angle is the primary marketing differentiator. Priced in the mid-premium range.
Key Chemistry
pH Level
Active Mechanism
mercaptopropionic acid chelation
Surfactants
0 (glycol_ether)
Expert Analysis
Age of Iron takes a differentiated approach by using 3-Mercaptopropionic Acid rather than the thioglycolic acid dominant in the iron remover market. Both compounds are thiols that chelate iron and produce the characteristic purple color change, but 3-MPA has a slightly different reactivity profile. The addition of glycerine (0.2-1%) supports the dual-purpose marketing as both iron remover and clay lubricant - providing slip for clay towels and wheel brushes. The 2-Butoxyethanol (hidden under trade secret) adds solvent power and helps the formula penetrate brake dust deposits.
Key Differentiators
- •3-Mercaptopropionic Acid chemistry instead of thioglycolic acid - genuinely different from Adams, CG Decon Pro, P&S Iron Buster, and most competitors
- •Dual-purpose formulation: iron remover + clay lubricant
- •Glycerine provides lubrication for mechanical agitation with brushes or clay
Potential Concerns
- ⚠Poor transparency - active iron-reactive chemistry not disclosed in Section 3
- ⚠2-Butoxyethanol hidden under trade secret despite toxicological relevance
- ⚠Higher hazard profile than competitors: respiratory sensitizer (H334), serious eye damage (H318)
- ⚠HMIS Health rating of 3 is higher than most pH-neutral iron removers
- ⚠Users with respiratory sensitivities should exercise extra caution
Ingredients
Source: sds section 3 plus inference
Safety Profile
Higher hazard profile than typical pH-neutral iron removers. Respiratory sensitization (H334) is notable - most iron removers in our database do not carry this classification. Eye damage rating (Cat. 1 / H318) is more severe than eye irritation. Requires eye protection, gloves, and adequate ventilation.