Microetching agent according to FRY A is an aqueous-alcoholic solution of copper dichloride dihydrate (CAS No.: 10125-13-0) and hydrochloric acid (CAS No.: 7647-01-0). It is used in metallography and scientific laboratories, especially for the study of force action figures in low carbon N2 steels and Thomas steels. The exposure time is only a few seconds to minutes, depending on the specific sample conditions.

The product contains copper dichloride dihydrate (CuCl2-2H2O) and hydrochloric acid (HCl), which react chemically to form a caustic solution. By heating the samples to temperatures of 150 to 200°C before etching, a better etch rate and etch quality is achieved. After etching, the sample is immersed in a 32% hydrochloric acid solution to remove the remaining etchant, then rinsed with water and neutralized with a 25% ammonia (NH3) solution.

Application of FRY A microetching provides detailed microstructures that allow better analysis and examination of treated samples. From this, insights into the mechanical properties and crystal growth of the material can be derived. The suitability of the product for specific applications should be checked in advance.

The FRY A microetching agent is mainly used to investigate force action figures in certain types of steel.