Metallographic Zinc Etchants
The most common etchant for zinc alloys is Nital, however, there are numerous more specific etchants. A good resouce for additional etchants can be found with the etchant database provided by PACE Technologie.
CAUTION: Safety is very important when etching. Be sure to wear the appropriate protective clothing and observe all WARNINGS on chemical manufacuters SDS (Safety Data Sheets). Also review the COMMENTS and CONDITIONS Section for each etchant.
Sample Preparation:
Zinc alloys must be properly prepared to reveal the true metallographic microstructure. A number of recommended procedures can be found at the following links:
Recommended Etchants
| Etchant | Conc. | Conditions | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Distilled water or Ethanol
Hydrochloric acid |
100 ml
1-5 ml |
Several minutes |
Zinc and zinc alloys |
|
Distilled water
Sodium Hydroxide |
100 ml
10 gm |
1-5 seconds | Low alloy zinc and pure zinc |
|
Distilled water
CrO3 Na2SO4 |
100 ml
|
Seconds |
Swabbing |
|
Wecks Zinc Reagent Potassium Permanganate Sodium Hydroxide Distilled water |
7.5 grams 2.5 grams 250 ml |
Immersion or swabbing etch at 20 degrees Celsius |
Used for etching zinc and zinc-based alloys. |
 |
| Zinc-aluminum alloy, 200X B.F., (etchant CrO3, Na2SO4) |
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