Dutch metal is a form of brass. The alloy typically consists of 85–88% copper and the remainder being zinc. It is also known by other names such as "composition gold leaf", "Dutch gold", "Schlagmetal" and "Schlag leaf".[1]

German packet of Dutch metal in foil form, early 20th-century

It is very malleable and ductile and so can be beaten into very thin sheets. These sheets are sold for use as metal leaf or imitation gold leaf.[2] The addition of arsenic produces an alloy with similar properties but coloured white.

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Dutch metal". Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved 2017-06-20.
  2. ^ Becker, Ellen (1998). Gold Leaf Application and Antique Restoration. Schiffer Pub. Limited. ISBN 9780764306327.