10% Oxalic Acid (Electrolytic)

Electrolytic

Composition

10g (COOH)₂·2H₂O, 100ml H₂O

10%

Method

Electrolytic

Time

30s

Alternative Names

Reveals

Grain boundaries, carbides, sigma phase

Typical Results

Electrolytic etchant for stainless steels. Reveals grain boundaries and secondary phases. Less aggressive than chemical etchants.

Color Effects

Grain boundaries dark

Compatible Materials

Incompatible Materials

Application Method

Method:electrolytic

Typical Time:30 seconds

Voltage:6 V

Current Density:0.1 A/cm²

Preparation Notes

Dissolve 10g oxalic acid dihydrate in 100ml distilled water. Use as electrolyte in electrolytic etching setup.

Application Notes

Use as electrolyte with stainless steel cathode. Apply 6V DC, 0.1 A/cm² current density for 30-60 seconds. Sample is anode. Rinse with water after etching.

Troubleshooting

Ensure good electrical contact. If no etching occurs, check connections and increase voltage slightly. If over-etching, reduce time or current density.

Storage Notes

Store in glass bottle. Shelf life: several months. Solution is stable.

Alternative Etchants

Kalling's No. 2
Glyceregia

Similar Etchants

Kalling's No. 2