The Following is Cr-etching reaction formula using Ce(NH4)2(NO3)6.
As Ce(NH4)2(NO3)6 is strong oxidizing agent, Ce(IV) is reduced to Ce(III).
Ce4+ + e- ---> Ce3+ ……………………………(1)
While, Cr is ionized.
Cr ---> Cr2+ + 2e- ………………………………(2)
Cr ---> Cr3+ + 3e- ………………………………(3)
Due to the above, it seems that Ce and Cr reacts as follows :
2Ce4+ + Cr ---> 2Ce3+ + Cr2+ …………………(4)
3Ce4+ + Cr ---> 3Ce3+ + Cr3+ …………………(5)
And Ce(III) ion generate precipitation of Ce(OH)3.
Ce3+ + 3H2O <===> Ce(OH)3 + 3H+
But, it Seems that acid control precipitation of Ce(OH)3 by inhibitor the above reflection.