---
title: Still Using Harsh Etchants to Reveal Microstructure
url: https://www.buehler.com/still-using-harsh-etchants-to-reveal-microstructure/
date: 2026-04-20T19:29:09+00:00
modified: 2026-04-29T16:55:01+00:00
lang: en_US
---

# Still Using Harsh Etchants to Reveal Microstructure

# Still Using Harsh Etchants to Reveal Microstructure?

From Keller's to Viella's, traditional etching relies on hazardous chemicals and operator control. NeoTerra® changes the process.

Watch the Video [Learn More About NeoTerra](https://www.buehler.com/products/grinding-and-polishing/electropolishing-and-etching/neoterra-electrolytic-metallography-system/) ![NeoTerra TerraBlends in Lab](https://www.buehler.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/NeoTerra-TerraBlends-in-Lab-1024x585.jpg)

## The Traditional Methods Haven't Changed in Decades

Metallographic etching has long depended on chemical-based methods to reveal microstructure. Common etchants include:

- Keller's Reagent
- Viella's Reagent
- Kalling's Reagent

![Acid Warning Icon](https://www.buehler.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Acid-Warning-Icon-1024x1024.png)

- Fry's Reagent
- Marble's Reagent
- Adler's Reagent

Each method relies on acids and operator technique to achieve results.

![NeoTerra Reveal](https://www.buehler.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/NeoTerra-Reveal-1024x684.jpg)

# A New Approach to Etching

NeoTerra replaces traditional etching with a controlled, method-based process designed for consistency and safety across applications.

### Instead of acid-based etchants:

NeoTerra uses acid-free TerraBlends®

### Instead of operator-dependent results:

Pre-Programmed methods deliver repeatablility

### Instead of process variability:

Standardized workflows ensure consitent outcomes

[Learn More About NeoTerra](https://www.buehler.com/products/grinding-and-polishing/electropolishing-and-etching/neoterra-electrolytic-metallography-system/)

## Consistent Results Across Applications

![](https://www.buehler.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/NeoTerra-Microstructure-1-1024x769.jpg)

Pure elemental nickel. Etched electrolytically with NeoTerra. Viewed with differential interferences contrast at 20x mag

![NeoTerra Microstructure](https://www.buehler.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/NeoTerra-Microstructure-2-1024x768.jpg)

Inconel 939 Laser Powder Bed Fusion. Post Thermal Treatment. Viewed at 10x mag.

[Learn More About NeoTerra](https://www.buehler.com/products/grinding-and-polishing/electropolishing-and-etching/neoterra-electrolytic-metallography-system/)

## See

![NeoTerra](https://www.buehler.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/NeoTera-Name-Logo-Final-Blue-1024x206.png)

## In Action

![NeoTerra Splash Video Thumbnail](https://www.buehler.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/NeoTerra-Splash-Video-Thumbnail-1024x525.jpg) Watch the Full Process

## Upgrade Your Etching Process

Move beyond hazardous chemicals and operator-dependent results with a more controlled approach to microstructure preparation.

[Talk to a Buehler Specialist About Your Application](https://www.buehler.com/request-product-information-neoterra.php) Watch the Video [Learn More About NeoTerra](https://www.buehler.com/products/grinding-and-polishing/electropolishing-and-etching/neoterra-electrolytic-metallography-system/)