Alloy Gold Deposits: Have They Any Industrial Use?

Abstract

A range of gold alloy electrodeposits wer produced from a variety of electrolyte systems for evaluations in the industrial market. Electrolytes ranged from acid to alkaline sulphite and cyanide gold systems in order to give a wide range for the evaluation. Each electrolyte system is discussed in detail with information on typical formulation and tables provided on physical characteristics of the deposits. Seven electrolytes, including two typical industrial formulations, were used for the evaluation and each deposit was investigated with regard to specifications relative to printed circuits, semi-conductors and general contacts. Microhardness, internal stress, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, density, solderability and heat treatment were all measured and the results tabulated. General conclusions suggest further evaluations of the Au-Cu-Cd system, provided a change in specifications is permitted.