Oberhoffer's Etchant
Oberhoffer's Reagent
Material Specific
Composition
50g CuCl₂, 150ml HCl, 150ml Ethanol, 50ml H₂O
Mixed
Method
Immersion
Time
30s
Alternative Names
Tags
Reveals
Phosphorus segregation, grain boundaries
Typical Results
Color etchant for revealing phosphorus segregation in steels and cast irons.
Color Effects
Colored phases
Compatible Materials
Incompatible Materials
Application Method
Method:immersion
Typical Time:30 seconds
Preparation Notes
Dissolve 50g CuCl₂ in 150ml HCl, then add 150ml ethanol and 50ml water.
Application Notes
Immerse sample for 30-60 seconds. Rinse with water and ethanol.
Troubleshooting
Produces color contrast showing phosphorus segregation.
Storage Notes
Store in glass bottle. Shelf life: several months.
Alternative Etchants
- 2% Nital
- 4% Picral
Similar Etchants
- 2% Nital