Effect of repeat use and coating defects of gold foil electrodes on electroretinogram recording

Study on the Purity of Gold Leaf in a SO2 Atmosphere at Ambient Temperature

Gold leaf samples of different purities were corroded in a SO₂ atmosphere at three different relative humidities (30%, 60%, 90%) at ambient temperature, and the effects on color, gloss, and morphology were studied. Results showed that a corrosion rate of 0.0898 g/cm² could be attained after 6 weeks at high humidity. Color changes also occurred during the gold leaf corrosion process, and many thin pits formed on the surfaces, as shown by SEM. EDX results showed that these pits contained C, O, and S compounds. By comparing the results of different gold purity samples and different relative humidity conditions, it could be concluded that both gold content and humidity play an important role in SO₂ atmosphere corrosion. These conclusions are helpful for the conservation of gold leaf decorative cultural relics.