Localized Gold-Plating Pinholes Can Expose Corrosion-Susceptible Contact Metal

What the evidence preview establishes

Localized pinholes or open blisters in the gold plating were the leading suspected trigger for contact corrosion. Mechanical damage, ionic contaminants, and embedded particles were additional possible contributors; sections did not show a widespread layer failure.

Why this case matters

Inspect contact plating at localized defects, not only at sound cross-sections. Combine tilted or high-magnification surface views with control sections and targeted chemistry, while separating a detected chlorine signal from proof of corrosive chloride.