Come and see my etchings may be a parody of a classic line, but the reality of the etching process often isn't so funny. Typically, a wet etching involves a design cut into a zinc plate, which is put into nitric acid and then washed with alcohol and kerosene.

These substances and others often associated with the etching process, such as nitric acid and ferric chloride solution, are corrosive and must not simply be poured down the drain; they must be managed as hazardous waste.

As always, check with your school’s EH&S staff to determine the appropriate procedures for your specific site. To learn more about the environmental laws, regulations and best practices associated with handling etching waste, continue on through this section of the EVC.