The use of electronic chemicals in circuit-board and chip manufacturing and repair processes is becoming common as chemicals help correct manufacturing irregularities and improve accuracy. Problem circuits on electronics are sometimes polished with chemicals for electronic products to remove burrs and prevent short and unintended circuits. Electronic chemicals are also useful for removing metal coatings and protective layers over certain types of electronics.

Although electronic chemicals can be used for a variety of applications, they are most commonly used to clean, polish and maintain metal components in electronics. If you're planning to make use of electronic chemicals in the future, consider the following:

1. Many electronics industry chemicals are acidic. Metal strippers are particularly acidic, so remember to always use proper safety precautions, including gloves and goggles.

2. Never mix electronics chemicals with water unless directed to do so by the manufacturer or other instructions. Mixing certain chemicals with water can ruin whatever you apply them to.

3. While you can use electronic chemical polishers yourself, many companies offer polishing and buffing services with specialized equipment if you need it done fast and efficiently.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy auxiliary electronic chemicals for soaking and cleaning electronic metal parts

Auxiliary chemicals for electronics include solvent cleaner, alkaline cleaner, aluminum cleaner and neutral cleaner. Solvent is good at removing oil and grease from metal parts, while aluminum cleaner leaves no etching effect and cleans at low temperatures. Neutral cleaner removes oils from steal, cast iron, copper, zinc and aluminum without emulsifying it.

I recommend: Check out Reliance Specialty Products' electronic chemicals supply, or buy chemical electronic cleaners from Horizon Products.

Purchase nickel and gold strippers chemicals for electronics industry

Stripper chemicals can remove protective coatings, usually made of nickel, without damaging the substrate. Depending on the substrate material, you may need to use specialty electronic chemicals to achieve the desired result. Be careful, as some strippers can damage certain metal substrates. Always make sure the electronic chemicals products you choose will not harm your the base metal.

I recommend: Order stripper chemicals from the OM Group, or contact the Metalline Corporation to buy them.

Select electronic chemistry polishing products

Polishing chemicals deburr and brighten iron, steal, aluminum, stainless steel and alloys. Products like steel polisher create a uniformly smooth surface without the use of current. Some polishing chemicals require special conditions to operate, such as a low temperature; or you may have to mix the chemicals before you use them. Occasionally, polishing chemicals come in the form of rogue, which is applied with a buffing wheel.

I recommend: Pick up a polishing compound from the Southwest Metal Finishing Company, or contact Competition Chemicals for deals on their metal polishing products.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When you're shopping for electronic chemicals, make sure they've been produced in clean room conditions. Look for particle absence and low metal traces. These qualities ensure a higher quality coating on your materials.