A minimally maintained CuCl etchant works well for me, right next to
machinery and tools.
The etchant container is covered, and i also put an upside down plastic box
over the whole setup, as a lid to keep the dust out. There is no rusting
noticeable nearby. I keep the bottles of HCL and H2O2 next to the etching
container, also under the dust cover. I did spot some rust on a spray can
when left directly next to a closed plastic bottle of HCl.
For my use i find it sufficient to maintain the CuCl by guesswork rather
than analysis. But i do have the stuff to properly measure HCl molarity and
density, if i ever really need to. So far i only tried it a couple of times
for fun.
It isn't the fastest etchant (especially since the working parameters are
not ideal), but it's been sitting there for years and given me good service
at extremely low cost and maintainance so i am satisfied.
ST
On Mon, Oct 6, 2008 at 12:15 PM, lcdpublishing <lcdpublishing@...>wrote:
> Hi guys,
>
> I have been using Ferric Chloride for a few years now - works fine
> and is easy to get and dispose of when spent. The downside is the
> mess.
>
> I know there are a couple of other options out there and am willing
> to give something else a try but am hesitant on two accounts
>
> 1) I am not a chemist
> 2) I don't want to kill myself
>
> Of the options that are available, which is a simple product to use
> AND maintain?
>
> What are the drawbacks to these other products (chemicals)?
>
> I am a bit concerned about the gasses given off. I etch in my garage
> which is filled with machinery of which I don't want all rusted up.
> On nice days I work outside, but during the winter I etch inside.
>
> Smells can be another problem. After smoking for 25 years or so and
> quiting, asthma and other respiratory problems are an issue.
>
> So, if you have experience with other chemicals for etching, I sure
> would appreciate hearing about your experiences and opinions.
>
> Chris
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