Syövytystä

Syövytystä refers to the process of etching, a subtractive manufacturing technique that involves the selective removal of material from a substrate. This is typically achieved through chemical or electrochemical means. In chemical etching, a mask is applied to the substrate, protecting the areas that are not meant to be etched. The unprotected areas are then exposed to an etchant, a corrosive chemical solution that dissolves the material. The reaction continues until the desired depth or pattern is achieved.

Electrochemical etching, also known as electrolytic etching, uses an electric current to facilitate the etching process. The substrate acts as an electrode in an electrolytic cell, and the etchant is an electrolyte. When a voltage is applied, the material is preferentially removed from the substrate's surface. This method offers greater control over the etching rate and depth.

Etching is a versatile process used across various industries. In electronics manufacturing, it is crucial for creating intricate patterns on printed circuit boards (PCBs) and microelectronic components. It is also employed in metallurgy for surface preparation and in art for creating decorative patterns on glass, metal, and other materials. The choice of etchant and etching method depends on the substrate material, the desired pattern, and the required precision.