It can be said that metal-assisted etching of silicon is an alternative approach to conventional electrochemical etching methods.

Electrochemical etching, also known as electro-etching, is a method for marking conductive materials. It involves pressing an electrolyte-soaked electrode onto a stencil that is placed over a metal part.

Electrochemical etching is a fast, reliable, and low-cost process. It is less destructive than hand-stamping and does not heat up the material or alter its microstructure. Electrochemical etching was originally developed for the aerospace industry, but is now used in many industries. It can be used to apply custom engravings or marks to knives, guns, medical tools, and jewelry.