Review of etchants for copper and its alloys in wet etching processes

Wet etching processes have been widely used for producing micro-components for various applications. These processes are simple and easy to implement. The selection of suitable chemical solution which is called etchant is the most important factor in the wet etching processes. It affects etch rate and surface finish quality. Copper and its alloys are important commercial materials in various industries, especially in electronics industry. Their wide applications are due to their excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, ease of fabrication, good strength and fatigue properties. The present study examines the possible etchants for copper and its alloys and reviews studies in detail to find out optimum etchant and its application parameters. The study is also aimed to provide information about safety, health and environmental issues caused by using various etchants in wet etching processes of copper and copper alloys.