Etching with iron(III)chloride hexahydrate

Jens Nordlunde · 17th October 2014, 06:19 PM

As it has been mentioned, FeCl3 is very agressive, so you have to be careful.
Some time ago this was discussed, and some suggested anything from pineapple juce to lime juice.
I find that ferrycloride is very good, but maybe you should try it on a blade of less value, so you know what happens, as you can always remove it, but just to make sure you know how it works.
Make sure you have the neutralisers at hand before you start.
You may end up with a blade slightly yellowish, but this can be removed by adding acid free oil and work the blade over with very fine steel wool - very gently.
Good luck
Jens

17th October 2014, 06:19 PM	#1
Jens Nordlunde Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Europe Posts: 2,718	As it has been mentioned, FeCl3 is very agressive, so you have to be careful. Some time ago this was discussed, and some suggested anything from pineapple juce to lime juice. I find that ferrycloride is very good, but maybe you should try it on a blade of less value, so you know what happens, as you can always remove it, but just to make sure you know how it works. Make sure you have the neutralisers at hand before you start. You may end up with a blade slightly yellowish, but this can be removed by adding acid free oil and work the blade over with very fine steel wool - very gently. Good luck Jens