Metallographic Etchants - Copper

Metallographic Etchants

Copper Alloys

CAUTION: Safety is very important when etching. Be sure to wear the appropriate protective clothing and observe all WARNINGS on chemical manufacturers MSDS. Also review COMMENTS Section for each etchant.

Etchant

Conc.

Conditions

Comments

Distilled water
Ammonium hydroxide
Hydrogen peroxide (3%)

25 ml
25 ml
5-25 ml

Seconds to minutes (use only fresh)

  • Grain boundaries use less H2O2
  • Grain contrast use more H2O2
  • Distilled water
    Nitric acid

    50 ml
    50 ml

    Seconds to minutes

    Copper and copper alloys

    Distilled water or Ethanol
    Hydrochloric acid
    Ferric chloride

    100-120 ml
    25-50 ml
    5-10 grams

    Seconds to minutes

    Produce grain contrast


    Metallographic micrograph of etched copper
    Tough Pitch copper, etched, Mag. 100X

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