Also the quality control for the gold discs may have been much more stringent that for the aluminum discs. Finally, your discs are not likely to encounter the same extreme conditions as the Ultech test discs. The picture is not black and white. Different experts in the industry have different estimates of how many discs are defective, and why, and just how long they can be expected to last. Nimbus mow guarantees its discs for 100 years, but all this means is that they will replace them or give you your money back if they wear out before then and if you are still around to collect.
Discs do last longer if carefully stored and handled.
They should be treated with the same care as fine LP' s, and protected from extreme temperatures and humidities. For Ethylene Oxide Exposure OSHA has set a maximum exposure to ethylene oxide of 5 parts per million in air, averaged over a 15-minute period. Compliance is required by September 6, 1988. Since 1984, libraries and archives have discontinued use of ethylene oxide for fumigation of materials and either ceased fumigation entirely or switched to less dangerous fumigants or methods, because of the new stringent requirements for outgassing facilities, licensed operating personnel, monitoring devices and so on. None are known to be using it at present, although it can be very effective both for mold and for insects.