We propose a novel stripping solution containing acids (HCl and HNO3), an oxidant [(NH4)2S2O8], and complexing agents (NaCl and citric acid) to remove surface passivation layers from 14K gold alloys fabricated using an investment casting process. The optimized solution employing only HCl acid is determined by varying molar fractions of HCl and HNO3 on 14K yellow gold samples. Stripping properties are also identified for red and white gold alloy samples under the optimized stripping conditions. The removal of passivation layers, weight loss, and microstructure evolution are characterized using Raman spectroscopy, a precision scale, and optical microscopy. The proposed stripping solution effectively removes passivation layers more rapidly than conventional cyanide stripping. Weight loss increases linearly for up to 5 min for all 14K gold alloys. Red gold exhibits the greatest weight loss, followed by yellow gold and white gold. The results of microstructural analysis reveal that the conformal stripping occurs according to time. These results imply that the proposed oxidative chloride stripping might replace conventional cyanide stripping.
Threelectrodes systems were used in stripping voltammetry (SW) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) instead of the expensive platinum and Ag/AgCl reference electrodes. Moreover, the electrolyte solution was used with deep seawater, which can reduce water pollution, is more eco-friendly, and has a lower cost. The analytical optimum parameters measured via CV and SW and with working ranges were obtained from 10 to 80 ug/L using fluorine immobilized on a graphite pencil electrode (FE). Under the optimum conditions, the analytical detection limit of 6.30 ug/LAu was obtained. The results of the study can be applied to diagnostic assay for natural minerals and human finger tissue.