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10% Phosphoric Acid (Electrolytic)

Electrolytic

Composition

10ml H₃PO₄, 100ml H₂O

10%

Method

Electrolytic

Time

30s

Alternative Names

Phosphoric Acid ElectrolyticElectrolytic Phosphoric

Tags

stainless-steelelectrolyticaustenitic

Reveals

Grain boundaries, phases

Typical Results

Electrolytic etchant for stainless steels. Good for revealing grain structure without over-etching.

Color Effects

Grain boundaries dark

Compatible Materials

stainless-steelaustenitic-stainless-steel

Incompatible Materials

carbon-steelaluminum

Application Method

Method:electrolytic
Typical Time:30 seconds
Voltage:6 V
Current Density:0.1 A/cm²

Preparation Notes

Mix 10ml concentrated phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄) with 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

  • 10% Oxalic Acid (Electrolytic)
  • Chromic Acid (Electrolytic)

Similar Etchants

  • 10% Oxalic Acid (Electrolytic)

ASTM References

ASTM E407