Etching...Uncovering the Hidden Image. Part 4

Figure 1. Chemical ‘Wet’ Etching,
Undercutting, and Resist Lifting

This is Part 4 of my series of blog posts on how to chemically Etch Copper Alloys using Toner Transfer Paper (TTP) or Press-n-Peel Blue (PnP, or PnP Blue) sheets as the main Resist. Please see Part 1 of this blog post series for general information and additional tips, several points are not repeated here.

This blog post adds details related to Part 3's figure, "The Process of Chemically Etching Copper Alloys", please see it for further details that are not repeated here.

[IMAGE]
Chemical ‘Wet’ Etching, Undercutting, and Resist Lifting

1. The Depth of the Etch is determined by: length of time, types of Metal and Etchants, as well as the strength / age / temperature of the Etchant. 

2. Narrower lines are shallower and thinner than (3.) Wider lines. 

4. Undercutting: The Metal is left in the Etchant for too long or it is too strong or new and it begins to erode away just under the resist’s edges causing an inconsistent and rough outer edge.

5. Resist Lifting: The Resist did not bond well enough to the surface, it either flakes or lifts off, the Etchant flows under and etches the new areas.


TO GO TO PART 1
TO GO TO PART 2
TO GO TO PART 3