The acid custom etched glass is treated with hydrofluoric acid in order to produce a matte surface finish on one or both of the surfaces of the glass. Since the surface of the glass has been created with chemical, the finish is very much durable and will not be scratched or washed off immediately. Often, this is being referred to as finger print proof or the smudge proof glass since it is durable and will withstand moisture, oil and humidity while at the same time still retaining the frosted appearance of the material. There are different levels of opacity which can be achieved when treating one or both of the sides of the glass and also the depth of the etching. The deeper the etching is, the more it creates opacity. Options in patterns, limitless color and tints are also possible. Here are some of the advantages if you op to use acid etched glass:
The matte finish will reduce glare and will allow for the practicality of glass even in interiors with high glare.
The permanent finish on the material will not fade over time or will never degrade.
Fingerprints will not show unlike other glossy materials.
Natural oil or moisture will not remove the finishing material.
They are extremely durable and will withstand vigorous cleaning. Nearly you can clean off anything with the use of magic eraser.
It can be tempered which allows for the use in railings, shower enclosures and furniture.
It can also be back painted and silvered or both in order to have beautiful additional effects.
In modern method, instead of sandblasting the glass, there is an alternative chemical process that will produce the same results to sandblast surface etching. The advantages of the process are that they are very easy and simple since they will not require equipment for abrasive etching. A beginner will produce etched glassware as well as small flat pieces of mirror and glass even if they have no experience. The disadvantage to the process is that the etch produced by the chemical is not usually as strong and as bright and white compared to the blasted finish. It is also not as consistent compared to other techniques with possibilities of splotching and streaking of the finish. Additionally, the etching chemical will not cut in the glass so you will not be able to carve the glass like you can had you made use of blasting. This means that either single or multi stage carving.