since googoo groups is dysfunctional right now, it's ok to email me about this, since I can't currently read posts post 7-29.
I have 48 Al rods, 5/16" by about 66" that I want to blacken (not anodize or paint). I have a patina solution that seems to work ok but I want a cheaper way , and maybe one that works better. I vaguely remember Al turning black after cola drink or orange juice got spilled on it , and have a piece sitting in some diet pepsi right now, not doing much .

alrightey then...

Dar