Etching Solution for Removal of Silver Plating From Polymers

An etching solution has been developed for use in removal of silver plating from polymer-based (including composite-material) structural components, the surfaces of which are intended to serve as mirrors and waveguide structures. Such structures are often plated with aluminum, copper, and silver to impart the reflectivity and electrical conductivity required of mirror and waveguide surfaces. It is sometimes necessary to remove the plating in preparation for reworking mirror or waveguide hardware. The present etching solution satisfies a need for an effective, fast-acting, nonoxidizing plating-removal solution that does not destroy the underlying polymeric or composite material.