The migration of Au in amorphous material was studied by using Rutherford back-scattering spectrometry, neutron activation and serial sectioning techniques. It was concluded that, like transition metals, Au underwent direct interstitial diffusion which was retarded by temporary trapping at defects that were intrinsic to the amorphous structure. Consequently, Au diffused more rapidly in amorphous samples than in dislocation-free crystalline material; where it diffused via the kick-out mechanism. The same was true of Pt and Zn, while Cu and Pd diffused more slowly in amorphous material, where they were unretarded interstitial diffusers.

W.Frank, W.Gustin, S.Coffa, J.M.Poate, D.C.Jacobson: Materials Science Forum, 1992, 83-87, 203-8