Etching and pickling

Challenges in the conventional etching/pickling process

When it comes to safe, sustainable, and cost-effective operations, there are several challenges associated with the conventional etching/pickling process:

1. Environmental challenges are caused by hazardous waste such as spent acid solutions, metal-containing sludges, and neutralizing agents.
2. Crystallization challenges in the etching/pickling bath because of copper concentration build-up. It leads to a reduced value of copper and labor-intensive cleanup.
3. The high cost associated with the disposal of hazardous waste requires additional management and labor.

Enhanced etching/pickling with emew system

Utilizing the emew system provides a feasible and eco-friendly treatment approach that allows for the direct recovery of LME grade copper (green copper) cathodes from spent baths. This method eliminates the generation of copper sulfate crystals or metal sludge, thereby increasing revenue through the sale of copper cathodes. Furthermore, it facilitates the regeneration of acid, which can be reused in fresh etching/pickling baths. As a result, the consumption of fresh acid is minimized leading to a closed-loop, sustainable process. It eliminates the waste acid streams and associated solid waste disposal thus reducing scope 3 emissions.

Benefits of emew system to enhance the etching/pickling process

Integrating the emew system in your etching or pickling applications provides substantial financial and operational benefits, resulting in a quick payback and improved facility safety. If you are interested in learning more about how emew can assist with your spent bath treatment, please contact us.