The most common etchant for zinc alloys is Nital, however, there are numerous more specific etchants. A good resouce for additional etchants can be found with the etchant database provided by PACE Technologies, http://www.metallographic.com/Consumables/Etch.htm
Sample Preparation: Zinc alloys must be properly prepared to reveal the true metallographic microstructure. A number of recommended procedures can be found at the following links:
http://www.metallographic.com/Procedures/Lead-tin-zinc%20Description.htm
http://www.metallographic.com/Brochures/Met-Manual-2b.pdf
CAUTION: Safety is very important when etching. Be sure to wear the appropriate protective clothing and observe all WARNINGS on chemical manufacturers SDS (Safety Data Sheets). Also review COMMENTS Section for each etchant.
| Etchant | Conc. | Conditions | Comments |
| Distilled water or Ethanol Hydrochloric acid |
100 ml 1-5 ml |
Several minutes | Zinc and zinc alloys |
| Distilled water Sodium Hydroxide |
100 ml 10 grams |
1-5 seconds | Low alloy zinc and pure zinc |
| Distilled water CrO3 Na2SO4 |
100 ml 20 grams 1-5 grams |