Alternative etchant

Technology

Collin Cunningham

February 19th, 2008

If you etch your own PCBs, you know what a pain ferric chloride can be – difficult to dispose of, doesn’t last very long, and it can be a hassle to acquire at times. Well consider Copper Chloride in Aqueous Hydrochloric Acid. It’s inexpensive, made from common chemicals, lasts a very long time, and has a lovely green hue. (at least for a little while) When the solution begins to lose its potency, it can be revitalized by mixing with air. But like ferric chloride it shouldn’t mix with the air you breathe – use plenty o’ ventilation. –Link

From the pages of MAKE:

Primer: Printed Circuit Boards Make:02 p.166 –Link