Materials Science and Engineering Team 1 is working with ARKA to develop a process to enhance the corrosion resistant properties of stainless steels. The process called passivation involves the removal of surface contaminants in a part with an emphasis on iron by immersing parts in a passivating acid/solution. This leads to the formation of a chromium-enriched surface to form a layer of chromium oxide, which prevents further oxidation of the alloy. Various issues appeared at ARKA when utilizing the conventional nitric acid with major concerns to the health and safety of workers, the environment, and product quality. An alternative, citric acid, is known to be much safer and biodegradable. Our project goal is to develop a successful and reliable procedure for passivation in citric acid.