MACRO-ETCHING

EXAMINATION
CHAPTER 16
 MACRO-ETCHING
 Also known as Acid – etching method
 A technique employed in number restoration which
involves the application of chemical solution on the
metal surface where the serial number is normally
located.
 Chemicals/ Reagents used in Macro –
etching Examination

1. For iron and steel:

Cupric Chloride + Hydrochloride Acid + Water
2. For aluminum:
Nitric Acid + Water
3. For lead:
Glacial acetic acid + Hydrogen peroxide
Number Restoration
 When a letter or number is stamped into a metal surface, a
molecular disturbance occurs beneath the visible portion of the
letter or number erased.

Serial Number
 A series of number that is punched or pressed into a particular
object/material to distinguish that object from one another.
 A serial number is sometimes preceded with or followed by letters
and symbols.
 Serial Number Restoration
 Firearms are “ stamped”
with an identification
serial number. These
numbers are linked to the
buyer of the firearm.
 Identification numbers are
usually etched on the
metal body, frame or plate
of the gun.
 Many times, criminals
“erase” the serial number
and it has to be restored
once the weapon is at the
crime lab.
Serial Number Restoration
 To restore a serial
number that has been
removed or obliterated,
the area must be
thoroughly cleaned and
polished. An etching
reagent is applied which
will react with the
strained area faster than
the unaltered metal,
allowing the numbers to
appear.
 Types of Numbers

1. Stamped Numbers – numbers that is pressed or

punched into a metal surface.
2. Engraved Numbers – number that is pressed
intendedly using a electrical or mechanical gadget.
3. Embossed Numbers – numbers that is raised from
the surface.
 Preliminary Examination in number
restoration
 Important points in the preliminary examination in number
restoration:
1. A careful search for the location of the serial number must
be made before the start of the restoration process.
2. Grease and oil must be removed using gasoline, alcohol,
etc.
3. Clean or polish the area using sandpaper.
4. Photograph the effected area.
 Spot detection of tampered/obliterated
serial number:
1. Presence of any sign of welding surrounding the serial number.
2. Presence of several scratches and filing marks on the serial surface.
3. Presence of any sign of concavity on the serial number surface.
4. Presence of any difference in the style of letters and numbers.
5. Appearance of fragmentary marks which could not be properly identified
because part of it is superimposed by letters and numbers.
6. Presence of any difference in the spacing of individual letters and numbers.
7. Disalignment of letters and numbers.
8. Absence of one or more letters before, in between or after a
set of sequential numbers.
9. Letters and numbers are stamped on places where the serial
is normally located.
10. Sizes of letters and numbers are sharper and coarser than
the others.
11. Presence of any irregularities in the depth of individual
letters and numbers.
12. Model of the vehicle in the chassis number does not tally
with that of the rating plate.
13. Absence of rating plate.
14. Alteration of the production number.