Etching solution

Date 12-06-2010 17:53

From time to time I read in this Forum questions regarding etching solutions: which one to use? which one is the best? etc.
For those who might be interested, at the metallurgical lab of Mackenzie Presbyterian University in Sao Paulo, we use the Keller reagent with good results.
The Keller reagent is prepared by mixing:
two milliliters of concentrated hydrofluoric: acid (HF)
three milliliters of concentrated hydrochloric acid: (HCl)
five milliliters of concentrated nictric acid (HNO3)
190 milliliters of distilled water.

Giovanni S. Crisi
Sao Paulo - Brazil

By Lawrence (*****)

Date 12-06-2010 18:07

Giovanni,

1. What materials is this suitable for?

2. What is the shelf life once mixed?

Thanx

Lar

By G.S.Crisi (****)

Date 12-13-2010 15:34

The solution is suitable for all materials, but especially for aluminum.
At the Metallurgical lab of Mackenzie U. they prepare a new solution at the beginning of every semester, when the old one is still active. So, they don't know how long it actually last.
Giovanni S. Crisi

By Lawrence (*****)

Date 12-13-2010 17:49

That sounds good.

I'm going to have a chat with our chemistry lab and see if they can provide a small sample for us to try.

Thank you Prof. Crisi!