Role of SIMS analysis in the brazing of precious alloys

Secondary ion mass spectrometric characterization of Cd-free and Cd-containing brazing alloys for jewelry are presented, analyzing the surface composition and elemental distribution along the thickness both for master alloys and brazed joints. It was verified that the brazing process induced little modification in In-containing alloys. On the other hand, Cd evaporation from the alloy was verified after heating, confirming its danger to health under these conditions. The presence of intermetallic clusters was detected, indicating interactions between brazing alloys and 18 carat gold.