The HCl solution I used is only 3% and the fumes were not too bad. I do not want things in the basement to rust or get that "brown" film from the fumes. Just as important is the effect it can have on the human body.
I might end up using ferric chloride in the colder months and cupric chloride again when it gets warmer when I can do that outside.
--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Russell Shaw <rjshaw@...> wrote:
>
> On 02/12/12 08:16, bruce_fleming wrote:
> > Hi all. I am new to this forum and am working on etching. The ferric chloride
> > has been tried a few times. While searching for better ways to etch using
> > ferric chloride I came across an Instructables on how to etch with muriatic
> > acid so you do not have throw out your solution when saturated with copper.
> >
> > When I tried the Cupric Chloride the I made sure the area was well ventilated
> > but I believe the cold slowed down the etching process so much that the
> > traces also were partially destroyed.
> >
> > Has anybody found a fume hood that will handle cupric chloride? Etching
> > outside or with a window open is not a good option in the winter.
>
> You only need less than 5% HCl acid in the etchant. There should be minimal fumes.
>