MicroClean™ EC-3 RDZ-1605
January 4, 2010
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An Alkaline Spray Cleaner for cleaning Copper Foils

MicroClean™ EC-3 (RDZ-1605) is a "micro-cleaner" that is designed to remove extremely tenacious soils from Copper foils. MicroClean™ EC-3 (RDZ-1605) was originally created to meet the needs of the Chemical Milling Industry, which because it uses only rolled foils, is frequently faced with removing the baked-on organic compounds. MicroClean™ EC-3 (RDZ-1605)has been used very successfully as a pre-clean for printed circuit boards before photoresist application or prior to oxide application. To achieve the best results in cleaning prior to photoresist application, follow MicroClean™ EC-3 (RDZ-1605) with MicroClean™ EC-4 (RDZ-1606).

MicroClean™ EC-3 (RDZ-1605) has also been used successfully in ChemBond™ EC oxide preclean line.

MAKE-UP:
Use at 20-30% by volume, at 115°- 180° F. Cleaning time will vary from one (1) to five (5) minutes, depending upon temperature and tenacity of the soils. Chemical Milling (rolled) foils require higher temperatures and longer processing times. Printed Circuit Board foils are more easily cleaned.

OPERATION:
For use in spray operations. MicroClean™ EC-3 (RDZ-1605) rinses freely and completely with no residues. Maintain at recommended concentration by titration. Keep dissolved Copper at less than 2000 ppm.

EQUIPMENT:
Spray equipment should be constructed of polypropylene, PVC, or stainless steel. Heaters should be quartz, Teflon, Titanium, or stainless steel. Some attack has been observed on some fiberglass/epoxy composites, especially those that have had previous contact with solvent based cleaners.

SAFETY:

MicroClean™ EC-3 (RDZ-1605) contains caustic potash (lye) and can cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Wearing safety goggles or a full-face shield is MANDATORY. Also wear gloves and protective clothing. Consult Material Safety Data Sheet for further information.

DISPOSAL:
Completely biodegradable, MicroClean™ EC-3 (RDZ-1605) may be disposed of into most sanitary sewage systems after any heavy metals picked up during use are removed and pH adjusted. Check with your local sanitary district regulators for guidance. Dispose of in accordance with Federal, State and local regulations. Contact your RD Chemical representative for further information.

PACKAGING:

A free-flowing low foam liquid, MicroClean™ EC-3 (RDZ-1605) is available in 55 gallon poly drums.


RD Chemical Company makes these recommendations in good faith, based on laboratory and field testing. Ultimate responsibility for propriety of use, however, must rest with the purchaser and user. RD Chemical Company recommends thorough testing of its products, before use.
Article originally appeared on RD Chemical Company - Manufacturing Chemists (http://rdchem.com/).
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