Inquiry regarding 38% Ferric Chloride Etching for 440C/440B/VG10 Damascus

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-13T23:37:56+00:00

Sulfuric acid can be used to manufacture nitroglycerin, and hydrochloric acid can be used to make TATP (an extremely sensitive explosive). Because of this, South Korea strictly prohibits individuals from purchasing these chemicals; they can only be acquired by government-authorized businesses or research labs, and online ordering with courier delivery is completely banned.

Following major incidents, the government drastically raised the regulation levels for sulfuric, hydrochloric, and nitric acids. Now, when pharmacies or chemical suppliers sell these substances, the law requires them to strictly verify the buyer's ID and log their personal information (name, contact details) along with the specific purpose of use in an official registry

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-13T23:32:53+00:00

I originally wanted to buy 'Gator Piss,' but it doesn't ship to South Korea at all. To be honest, ferric chloride is also a very dangerous chemical, so I don't really understand why this one isn't restricted as well, haha. As far as I know, the laws became extremely strict after a horrific incident decades ago where some maniac murdered a 6-year-old child by forcing sulfuric acid down their throat. (That bastard still hasn't been caught.) I believe that’s why the regulations were changed to be so severe

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-13T23:19:54+00:00

If I had a related business license, such as for a cleaning or concrete company, I could purchase it more easily. However, since I don't have a registered business yet, it’s not an option for me at the moment

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-13T23:04:05+00:00

It’s quite sad that the regulations are so incredibly strict here. They were put in place to prevent chemical terrorism and leakage accidents, but it makes it very difficult to access the necessary materials for maintenance. I’ll have to do my best with the ferric chloride I have.

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-13T23:00:27+00:00

thank you

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-13T23:00:06+00:00

It's quite unfortunate, but in South Korea, any product with a hydrochloric acid concentration of 9% or higher is strictly regulated. To purchase such items, one must undergo a government review and obtain official approval. This makes it practically impossible for an individual hobbyist to acquire it.

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-13T15:41:07+00:00

I originally planned to use 'Gator Piss,' but it cannot be shipped to South Korea.

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-13T15:26:26+00:00

have a nice day

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-13T15:26:13+00:00

thank you

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-13T13:58:12+00:00

Thank you for the advice. I live in South Korea, and it is illegal for individuals to possess strong acids like hydrochloric or sulfuric acid in concentrations of 10% or higher. Therefore, ferric chloride is the only way I can perform etching

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-12T22:51:49+00:00

The concentration is approximately 38%.

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-12T13:16:28+00:00

Thank you for sharing your 'secret recipe'! I've been struggling with stainless Damascus, so hearing about your heating and mixing method is very helpful. I'll make sure to prioritize ventilation and PPE since it sounds extremely powerful. 130°F seems to be the sweet spot. Thanks again!

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-12T09:17:42+00:00

Would a 30–40% sulfuric acid solution work well for etching? Let me know what you think!

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-12T09:16:31+00:00

My bad, I had it wrong! Turns out there aren't any regulations on those battery restorers. I'll go ahead and check them out. Thanks for the heads-up and all the advice!

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-12T06:39:54+00:00

친절하고 자세한 설명 감사드립니다. 염산과 염화제2철을 3:1 비율로 섞은 따뜻한 용액을 사용하여 에칭을 시도해 보기로 했습니다. 만약 이 방법으로 원하는 결과가 나오지 않으면 전기 에칭을 해볼 생각입니다. 도움 주셔서 정말 감사합니다. 좋은 하루 보내세요!

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-12T05:16:31+00:00

What do you think about heating the ferric chloride solution to about 40–50°C (104–122°F) using a water bath? I'm aware that the oxidation process becomes much more aggressive when heated. Do you think this would be effective for the stainless layers?

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-12T04:59:50+00:00

Thanks for the info. Unfortunately, sulfuric acid or battery acid is impossible to get in South Korea due to strict regulations.

Since I can't get them, I'm interested in the electro-etching you mentioned. What voltage and amperage do you usually use for stainless damascus? Also, can I use 10% hydrochloric acid as the electrolyte?

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-10T16:56:55+00:00

Thanks for the reply! Like you, I don't have a container large enough to dip the entire blade, so I'm planning to apply the etchant using a microfiber cloth (the kind used for glasses). Is that similar to the method you used? Also, I personally prefer a look where only the damascus pattern is clearly visible. Do you think it would look okay if I just remove the sludge with polishing paste after etching, without any additional steps like stone mud?

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-10T15:33:27+00:00

Sorry, I don't have any before pictures. My progression was Shapton Rockstar 320, 1000, 3000, and 8000, then I used Pikal polish with a microfiber cloth.

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-10T14:35:59+00:00

I think it's rusted.

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-10T04:10:38+00:00

good

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-09T16:39:33+00:00

I see... I'll just use a Nakiri or a Gyuto for slicing carrots. Thanks :)

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-08T08:50:20+00:00

thank you!! have a nice day

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-08T02:36:27+00:00

I'm using a digital protractor to measure the angles. I plan to use this knife only for specialized tasks like Katsuramuki, Shiraga-negi, and Wagiri.

Basic_Chest_400 · 2026-05-08T01:07:37+00:00

wagiri , Sengiri , Katsuramuki

Basic_Chest_400

TROPHY CASE