Gold's Optical and Infrared Reflectivity

Why this topic matters

Why selected optics and spacecraft surfaces use thin gold films. Gold is normally used only where its particular surface, electrical, optical or chemical behaviour adds enough value to justify the material.

How gold fits the system

Gold is chosen for a combination of stable surface conductivity, corrosion resistance, workability and specialized optical behaviour. It is not the best or cheapest material for every job.

Material tradeoffs

Bulk copper or silver can outperform gold on conductivity or price, so industry normally uses gold selectively at surfaces, contacts or very small features.

Manufacturing and quality

Specifications should define purity or alloy, dimensions, surface condition and the environment instead of relying on the word “gold” alone.

Lifecycle and recycling

Material efficiency comes from thin layers, selective placement, long service life and recovery of manufacturing scrap.