Etching PCBs

and any other non-chem subjects.
Post Reply
User avatar
robo
Posts: 10
Joined: 02 May 2007, 10:00
State/Location: WA

Etching PCBs

Post by robo »

I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice about what is the best solution to use when etching
fiberglass PCBs.I know there are some pre made solutions available,but there could be better/cheaper options?
Any other ideas would be welcomed. Hope you can help........Rob.
User avatar
Slartibartfast
Posts: 643
Joined: 24 Oct 2006, 10:00
State/Location: QLD

Re: Etching PCBs

Post by Slartibartfast »

Sorry, I deleted as I'm finding out more information on a cheap workable solution for you Rob.

OK : 1 part hydrochloric acid : 2 parts hydrogen peroxide etchant mix agitated and heated in a small fishtank is what my brother does and gets satisfactory results. Just don't soak for long and the fibreglass will soon become brittle and break up.
Richard Hollinworth
Disease diagnosis and extension services
DPI&F
Biosecurity Sciences Laboratory
User avatar
robo
Posts: 10
Joined: 02 May 2007, 10:00
State/Location: WA

Re: Etching PCBs

Post by robo »

Thanks for your help Richard, I will give it a shot...Rob.
User avatar
Ross
Posts: 23
Joined: 10 Jul 2006, 10:00
State/Location: NSW

Re: Etching PCBs

Post by Ross »

Rob,

The common etchants are Ferric Chloride (about 42%) or Ammoinum Persulfate (about 15 to 20%).

The ferric chloride can be reused a few times.

The ammonium persulfate can not be reuesd or store once in solution. It also requires heating up to 75 degrees to be used.

Hope this helps

Ross
User avatar
Ian
Posts: 575
Joined: 16 Oct 2006, 10:00
Job Title: Lab Assistant
School: Macarthur Anglican School
Suburb: Cobbitty
State/Location: NSW

Re: Etching PCBs

Post by Ian »

I would have put my vote behind the Ferric Chloride. I have not done it muself yet but it is in the pile of "Round Tuit" stuff. (that is, the things I hope to do when I get a round tuit.)

Ian
Post Reply