ASTM B488-18(2025)

1.2Specifically excluded from this specification are autocatalytic, immersion, and vapor deposited gold coatings.

1.3Gold coatings conforming to this specification are employed for their corrosion and tarnish resistance (including resistance to fretting corrosion and catalytic polymerization), bondability, low and stable contact resistance, solderability, and infrared reflectivity. Several types of coatings, differing in gold purity and hardness, are covered by this specification.

1.4The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. Values provided in parentheses are for information only.

1.5The following hazards caveat pertains only to the test methods section, Section 9, of this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.