In order to etch Damascus, you will first need a substance to dissolve the metal. This substance may include Ferric chloride, Oxalic acid, Nital, or White vinegar. You will need to read the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your Damascus jewelry. If you are unsure about which solution to use, read this article first. It will give you a better understanding of the process.
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Ferric chloride
The process of etching Damascus metal begins after grinding or manufacturing the blank. The process brings out the patterns in the steel, which contrast with the dull surface of the blank. The use of acid is dangerous and should be done only with the proper protective gear and equipment. It is possible to use muriatic acid (diluted hydrochloric acid) or ferric chloride, a highly acidic form of iron.
To use this acid, the iron chloride must be between 70 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. You can heat the acid by placing the container into a large bowl of warm water, but never use a microwave to heat the acid. Once the acid reaches the proper temperature, place the Damascus piece in the acid. The acid should not be too hot, as it can cause burns.
Oxalic acid
You can use oxalic acid to etch Damascus steel. You can purchase a circut board echant at Radio Shack. This acid, which is made up mainly of ferric cloride, works well on metiorites. While the final finish may appear rough, it is still very attractive. If you wish to get a darker contrast, you can use WD-40 on the surface of the Damascus steel.
First, make sure that your Damascus is clean. Do not use acetone or any other cleaner as these can leave residue on the surface of the Damascus. Distilled water is recommended, and make sure it is no older than a year. You should also use an old toothbrush to wipe away any residue and dissolving material. Oxalic acid should be applied in small and even layers, as this will create a shimmering effect.
Nital
To begin nital etching Damascus, make sure to keep it as clean as possible. Avoid using acetone on the piece, as it can leave residue on the surface that will interfere with the etching process. Instead, dilute ferric acid with distilled water. This water should not have been sitting around for more than a year. After diluting the acid, brush the piece until it is smooth.
Once the stone has been etched, the resulting matrix is called a Widmanstatten. The chemical process is similar to that used to etch meteorites, but the process is different for different types of stone. The result is an etched meteorite called plessite, which is a unique three-mm-wide ring that carries a strong, pungent smell.
White vinegar
When etching Damascus steel, the first step is to thoroughly clean the surface before soaking it in acid. While acetone leaves residue, hydrochloric acid is not diluted and does not require dilution. Before beginning, swish the piece in the acid and scrub the surface with a clean old toothbrush to remove any dissolved materials or residual oil. After soaking the workpiece in acid for a few minutes, rinse it thoroughly with a clean cloth.
Next, you must make sure that the acid is 70-100 degrees Fahrenheit. For this, you can put a container in a large bowl of water to bring the temperature up to the right level. Do not use a microwave oven to heat the acid. After adding the acid to the Damascus piece, hang it in the bowl to allow the etching solution to penetrate all the way to the metal.
