Substitute for Nital etchant?

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I'm experimenting with my MIG. I'd like to see how some different variables affect penetration in spray transfer. I looked at ordering some 4% Nital etchant from a chemical supply, but the it was very expensive. IIRC, they wanted $60 just in S&H fees for a small bottle. The smallest bottle I could find was 250ml. and I'd probably use a fraction of that before shelf life expired. Is there anything that makes a decent weld etch solution that I can get from locally available supplies? (Atlanta GA ) This is just a project to satisfy my personal curiosity; It does not have to "official,mil-spec,laboratory certified" etchant - anything to bring out contrast will work. I'd like to keep this project under $20 if possible. TYIA!-Matt------------------------------------------
Reply:Aluminum wheel etching solution.  Made by Eagle available at autozone.  Its what I use.  Just spray it on warm metal.  Wipe it off in about 15 seconds.  A couple minutes if the steel is cold.. . . .Six bucks.DavidReal world weldin.  When I grow up I want to be a tig weldor.
Reply:The back of Lincoln's Procedure Handbook ( 16.1-64 ) gives a number of formulas for etchants,  some for general purpose and some specialized. You can probably get Nitric acid at a chemical supply house in Atlanta; look for that in the Yellow pages. Denatured ethanol will probable be fine and is readily available as shellac thinner or marine stove fuel.For just the small amount you want, you might also try asking at the chemistry department of a local Junior College; tell them what it's for, and they may be happy to see someone using chemistry in real life.
Reply:Originally Posted by David RAluminum wheel etching solution.  Made by Eagle available at autozone.  Its what I use.  Just spray it on warm metal.  Wipe it off in about 15 seconds.  A couple minutes if the steel is cold.. . . .Six bucks.David