NH₄OH + H₂O₂Ammonia Peroxide
Ammonium Hydroxide + H₂O₂
Material Specific
Composition
50ml NH₄OH, 50ml H₂O₂ (3%)
50:50
Method
Immersion
Time
20s
Alternative Names
Tags
Reveals
Grain boundaries, twin boundaries
Typical Results
Standard etchant for copper and brass. Reveals grain boundaries and annealing twins. Fresh solution required for best results.
Color Effects
Grain boundaries dark, twins visible
Compatible Materials
Incompatible Materials
Application Method
Method:immersion
Typical Time:20 seconds
Preparation Notes
Mix 50ml ammonium hydroxide (NH₄OH) with 50ml hydrogen peroxide (3% H₂O₂). Prepare fresh solution - decomposes quickly.
Application Notes
Immerse sample for 10-30 seconds. Swab gently if needed. Rinse with water. Fresh solution works best.
Troubleshooting
Solution decomposes quickly - prepare fresh for each use. If no etching occurs, prepare new solution. Very common and effective for copper.
Storage Notes
Cannot be stored - prepare fresh for each use. Decomposes within hours.
Alternative Etchants
- Ammonium Persulfate
- ASTM No. 30
Similar Etchants
- Ammonium Persulfate
- ASTM No. 30