Regeneration of Etchants

Regeneration of Etchants

October 1981

As the cost of etching continues to rise, regeneration of the etchant becomes more and morc attractive. This paper will discuss the advantages of regeneration when etching many types of metals and alloys induding the saving of time, chemicals. work space and monetary costs. Some general advantages of regeneration are: I. Reduced cost. 2. Practically no down time for emptying and cleaning out of equipment. 3. Steady etch rate. 4. Less spent etchant to dispose of, yet it is more in demand. a. Unregenerated Ferric chloride will hold only about 1/2 lb. of copper per gallon. b. Regenerated cupric chloride will hold 1 1/4 lb. of copper per gallon. c. Unregenerated ferric chloride (42″ Be’) will hold approximately 1/2 lb. of iron per gallon, while regenerated ferric chloride will hold approximatcly 2 lb. d. Unregenefatcd ferric chloride, 20 Be’, will hold approximately 3 oz. of aluminum per gallon. while in the regenerated state it will hold 6-7 oz. per gallon.

Mark A. Reilly, DEA
Explore other publications