Re: Copper etching using HCl and H202

Bill Penrose wrote:
On Apr 27, 9:20 am, OBones <obones_gfd_@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
Hi all,

I regularly etch copper plates using a mix of hydrochloric acid (23%
concentration), hydrogen peroxide (35% concentration) and some tap water.
When the copper plate is dipped into the mix, gassing occurs and the mix
gets a blue/green color which intensity depends on the quantities of the
various components of the mix.
I don't know the exact nature of the gas that gets out and the various
websites that describe this method do not agree on what it is. Some say
it's pure oxygen (02), some others say it's pure chlorine, some just say
it's "toxic gas".

Even if it's not toxic, there will likely be spray in it that you
should avoid. Ventilation or a powered vented hood should be used
regardless. Also, the HCl will damage metal things in the vicinity
sooner or later.

Ventilation is part of the process, no doubt about that.


If it's chlorine, you'd detect the odor of bleach pretty quick.

Fair enough.


Isn't 35% peroxide hard to get these days, what with terrorists and
shoe bombs and all? Ammonium persulfate is easier to use and control
and stores better.

It's not that hard, but yes, it's not available at any DIY store. Ammonium persulfate must be heated which makes not as convenient as the above mix that works at ambient temperature.

Thanks
Olivier
.

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