PCBLaserEtch
laser-etched chemical etchant mask for DIY PCBs
- Clean the copper surface if dirty using a scotchbrite pad
- Spray paint with a flat black spray enamel, a single light coat just so that the copper isn't visible anymore.
- Place in the laser cutter and print your pattern (reversed) into the paint using multiple passes to reduce soot. 20% power 100% speed in a 60 watt laser (two passes)
- Remove from laser and dunk into FeCl but do not agitate (or do anything) for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Remove board from etchant and rinse with water gently. The paint soot will be more loose and the paint will have hardened
- Lightly wash the soot from the board using a Q-tip and some 91% rubbing alcohol. Be careful of small features, and be thorough
- Place back into etchant and etch as usualy. Any problem areas (soot you didn't get) will have to be touched up after a quick rinse with water with the FeCl on a Q-tip after removing the soot with alcohol.
- Remove spray paint with acetone
Done!