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Tucker's Reagent

Material Specific

Composition

45ml HCl, 15ml HNO₃, 15ml HF, 25ml H₂O

Mixed

Method

Immersion

Time

30s

Alternative Names

Tucker's Etchant

Tags

aluminumaluminum-alloy

Reveals

Grain boundaries, precipitates, phases

Typical Results

For revealing grain structure in aluminum alloys, especially heat-treated materials. Good for showing precipitates.

Color Effects

Grain boundaries dark

Compatible Materials

aluminumaluminum-alloyheat-treated-aluminum

Incompatible Materials

steeltitanium

Application Method

Method:immersion
Typical Time:30 seconds

Preparation Notes

CAUTION: HF is extremely hazardous. Mix 45ml HCl, 15ml HNO₃, 15ml HF, and 25ml water in plastic container. Use fume hood and proper PPE.

Application Notes

Immerse sample for 15-45 seconds. Swab if needed. Rinse immediately with copious water.

Troubleshooting

HF causes severe burns. Use in fume hood with proper PPE. Have calcium gluconate gel available. Good for heat-treated aluminum alloys.

Storage Notes

Store in plastic container. Label clearly. Extremely hazardous - follow safety protocols.

Alternative Etchants

  • Keller's Reagent
  • Al-NaOH Etchant

Similar Etchants

  • Keller's Reagent

ASTM References

ASTM E407