FLUOROPLASTIC-ETCH® is prduced by Artilabo International and is used to make PTFE, FEP, PFA,
TFE, ETFE, PVDF and other Fluoroplastic surfaces bondable.
It is an oversaturated solution of sodium with appropriate solvents.
Its color is dark green to black, with a density of ± 0,92, it is flammable,
unstable and reacts to humidity by forming Sodium hydroxid (NaOH).
It is therefore strongly recommended to keep FLUOROPLASTIC-ETCH®
in an air-less bottle as the product degrades in a few hours when in contact with air.
When using the product, temperature may go up to 100°C.
However, very good results are obtained at room temperature.
The time of the treatment ranges from a few seconds to over 1 minute.
The duration of the process is determined by the concentration
and the temperature of the product.
FLUOROPLASTIC-ETCH® should be heated on a “bain-marie”.
Surfaces must be clean, dry and free of any grease.
FLUOROPLASTIC-ETCH® can be applied by spreading or by immersion.
Spreading, with a spatula for example, must be done very quickly due to its instability to air humidity.
Once the product is applied, rinse off the surface with water (which may be warm and contain some detergent).
Rinsing with acetone, MEC or other solvents also gives good results.
When using FLUOROPLASTIC-ETCH® it is important to ensure good ventilation
and to rinse immediately with water to avoid skincontact.
For gluing we recommend Epoxy SA 401, which can be used at temperatures up to 130°C.
FLUOROPLASTIC-ETCH® has a maximum shelf life of 6 months and must be kept in an environment at beneath 10°C.
The FLUOROPLASTIC-ETCH® is delivered in supple polyethylene flasks of 250, 500, 1.000 or 5.000 ml.
With 1 liter of the product, 8 m2 can be etched.