In this paper two solvent systems for the paper chromatographic separation of platinum metals and estimation of gold are studied:Ⅰ.Methyl n-amyl ketone-hydrochloric acid (sp.gr.1.19) [70:30 (V/V)];Ⅱ.Acetophenone-acetone-hydrochloric acid (sp.gr.1.19) [50:20:30 (V/V/V)].These two solvents are excellent for the separation of chloride mixtures of the platinum metals (including gold and silver),such as Au-Pt-Pd-Rh,Au-Ru-Pd-Rh,Au-Pt-Pd-Ir and Au-Ir-Pt-Pd-Rh,etc.Ascending technique was used.The paper chromatographic behaviours of 23 metallic ions and the influence of chloride,nitrate,sulphate,phosphate and perchlorate ions on the development of the platinum metals spots have also been examined in connexion with solvents Ⅰ and Ⅱ.A convenient and rapid method for the determination of gold in electrolytic slime has been devised.The results obtained with the procedure are quite satisfactory.As little as 0.06 μg of gold can be determined with 1 cm wide paper strip,and the relative error is not greater than ±10%.