Titanium Anode in Micro – Etching Solution Copper Recovery

Micro – etching solution is a chemical solution commonly used in PCB (Printed Circuit Board) manufacturing to remove unwanted parts of the copper surface. Titanium anodes are used in this process for electrolytic reactions, which contribute to copper recovery, etching solution regeneration, and improved electrolysis efficiency.

Basic Principle of Copper Recovery from Micro – Etching Solution

Micro – etching solution usually contains chemical components such as chlorides, sulfuric acid, and hydrofluoric acid to dissolve the copper surface and remove the excess copper layer. Through the electrolysis process, copper is deposited from the etching solution onto the cathode. Meanwhile, the anode has to withstand a continuously corrosive environment.

In the copper recovery process, titanium anodes play an important role in the electrolytic reaction:

Copper Electrolytic Reaction (Cathode Reaction)

• Cu²⁺ + 2e⁻ → Cu. Copper ions are reduced from the electrolyte and deposited on the cathode surface.

Anode Reaction

• 2Cl⁻ → Cl₂ + 2e⁻
• or
• 2H₂O → O₂ + 4H⁺ + 4e⁻. At the anode, chloride ions or water decompose to form chlorine or oxygen.

Functions and Advantages

The functions of titanium anodes in copper recovery from micro – etching solution are mainly reflected in providing a stable current flow, corrosion resistance, and a long service life. Since titanium anodes have to withstand a highly corrosive chemical environment in this process, the selection of materials is crucial.

Application of Titanium Anodes in Copper Recovery from Micro – Etching Solution

When recovering copper from micro – etching solution, an electrolytic cell is usually set up, where the anode and cathode interact through the electrolyte. Titanium anodes are commonly used as the anode part in such electrolytic cells. The anode is responsible for transmitting current to the electrolyte and maintaining the stability of the electrolyte through oxidation reactions (such as generating chlorine or oxygen).

Copper Recovery

Copper is reduced to the cathode and recovered through the electrolysis process. Due to their good corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity, titanium anodes can maintain a stable working environment in the electrolytic cell, which is conducive to efficient copper recovery.

Electrolyte Regeneration

Titanium anodes can also help some components in the electrolyte undergo oxidation reactions, enabling the electrolyte to be recycled and reducing the waste of etching solution.

Reducing Electrolyte Pollution

Titanium anodes can reduce the accumulation of harmful substances in the electrolyte, maintaining the efficiency and environmental – friendliness of the electrolysis process.

Working Environment of Titanium Anodes in Copper Recovery from Micro – Etching Solution

• Highly Corrosive Environment: Since micro – etching solution usually contains corrosive substances such as chlorides, sulfuric acid, and hydrofluoric acid, titanium anodes need to have strong corrosion resistance and be able to work stably in such a harsh environment for a long time.
• High Current Density: During the electrolysis process, the current density is high. Titanium anodes must have strong electrical conductivity to effectively conduct current and ensure the smooth progress of the electrolytic reaction.

Zusammenfassung

Titanium anodes play an important role in copper recovery from micro – etching solution. They mainly provide a stable current path for the electrolysis process, and are corrosion – resistant and high – temperature – resistant, capable of working stably in a strongly acidic and chloride – containing environment for a long time. The use of titanium anodes can significantly improve copper recovery efficiency and extend the service life of equipment. Through appropriate coatings (such as iridium or ruthenium coatings), their catalytic activity can be further enhanced, reducing energy consumption and improving reaction efficiency.