black flux

noun

, Metallurgy.

Tartar and "black flux," are reducing agents as well as fluxes.

The "black flux," which may be obtained by heating tartar, is a mixture of carbonate of potash and charcoal.

Black flux is obtained when equal parts of nitre and tartar are deflagrated.

It melts at the flame of a candle, and may be reduced when heated along with iron or black flux, which are distinctive characters.

Charcoal or even oil may be substituted for black flux, and a retort of hard glass may be used, with the same result.

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