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Weck's Etch

Material Specific

Composition

100ml H₂O, 4g KMnO₄, 4g NaOH

4% each

Method

Immersion

Time

60s

Alternative Names

Weck's Reagent

Tags

stainless-steelduplexcolor-etching

Reveals

Phases, grain boundaries

Typical Results

Color etchant for stainless steels. Produces colored phases.

Color Effects

Colored phases

Compatible Materials

stainless-steelduplex-stainless-steel

Incompatible Materials

carbon-steelaluminum

Application Method

Method:immersion
Typical Time:60 seconds
Temperature:60 °C

Preparation Notes

Dissolve 4g KMnO₄ and 4g NaOH in 100ml water. Heat to 60°C.

Application Notes

Immerse sample at 60°C for 60-120 seconds. Rinse with water.

Troubleshooting

Use hot for best results. Produces color contrast.

Storage Notes

Store in glass bottle. Prepare fresh when needed.

Alternative Etchants

  • Kalling's No. 2

Similar Etchants

  • Kalling's No. 2

ASTM References

ASTM E407