Our laboratory is expert in metallurgical analysis such as Chromium VI and alloy analysis, offering advanced expertise in determining chemical composition and physico-chemical properties.
Your needs: perform a chromium VI analysis
Chromium VI (or hexavalent chromium, or chromium 6) is an oxidized form of the chemical element chromium. It is widely used in industry, but is also highly toxic and carcinogenic to humans.
Laboratory analysis of chromium VI
Using advanced analytical techniques, our laboratory delivers accurate and reliable results for every chromium VI analysis.
Our teams provide a fast, standards-compliant service, ensuring the quality and safety of our chromium-based products.
Analysis of chromium VI composition
Analysis of chromium VI composition ensures that materials meet the required quality standards.
Our laboratory offers a service dedicated to verifying the chemical composition of chromium VI, by measuring the proportions of chemical elements.
These analyses validate the conformity of materials for demanding applications in terms of durability and resistance.
The composition of chromium VI
The “composition” of chromium VI depends on the specific chemical compound in which chromium is present, as “chromium VI” (or Cr⁶⁺) refers to an oxidation state of chromium, not to an isolated compound.
Here are some of the most common compounds containing chromium VI:
Chromium trioxide
Sodium dichromate
Potassium dichromate
Chromates
Why choose FILAB for chromium VI analysis?
Our chromium VI analysis methods
The FILAB laboratory offers metallurgical chromium VI analysis services to several hundred customers, some of them under COFRAC ISO 17025 accreditation.
We employ state-of-the-art analytical methods, such as optical emission spectrometry and ICP analysis, to deliver highly accurate chromium and chromium VI analysis results.
These techniques enable us to detect elements in very low concentrations and provide detailed reports.
Our analysis of metals and alloys
Cobalt : Cobalt Stellite Grade 6, Cobalt Stellite Grade 21
Nickel (Nitinol, Inconel 718, Inconel 625, René 77, Hastelloy X)
To see further: our expertise in chromium VI alloys
In addition to routine metallurgical analyses, the FILAB laboratory can provide you with expert metallurgical analyses and failure studies on your chromium VI-based samples:
Metallographic examination of chromium VI
Weld analysis on chromium VI
Study of fracture surfaces on chromium VI
Study of ageing (corrosion, surface alteration, etc.) on chromium VI
Thickness measurement of chromium VI
Study of corrosion resistance on chromium VI
Analysis and characterization of chromium VI surfaces (roughness, defects, etc.)
Analysis Alloy composition
Study of microstructures chromium VI material
FAQ
Chromium VI is mainly used in industrial applications such as metal surface treatment, including hard chromium plating and passivation. It is also present in the manufacture of pigments for paints and inks, in the production of glass and ceramics, and in corrosion inhibitors. It is also found in sectors such as aeronautics and the automotive industry.
Chromium VI is highly toxic. It is classified as a proven carcinogen by inhalation, which means it can cause cancer, particularly lung cancer. It is also irritating to the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. Prolonged exposure can cause skin ulcers and allergic sensitization, and affect the kidneys, liver, respiratory and immune systems.
Chromium VI (Cr⁶⁺) is toxic and highly oxidizing, while chromium III (Cr³⁺) is more stable and less toxic. Chromium III is even considered essential in small quantities for certain biological functions, while chromium VI, on the contrary, is hazardous to human health and the environment. Chromium III is sometimes used as a safer alternative to chromium VI in certain industrial applications.
Yes, chromium VI is still used in certain specific sectors, but its use is strictly regulated. In Europe, it is listed as a Substance of Very High Concern under the REACH regulation. Restrictions are also imposed by the RoHS directive for electrical and electronic equipment. However, certain temporary authorizations may be granted, provided that companies can justify the absence of viable alternatives.
Yes, there are several alternatives to chromium VI. For example, chromium III is used in certain surface treatments and as an alternative to chromates. Other chromium-free solutions, such as treatments based on zirconium, titanium or silanes, are also being developed to replace chromium VI-based products in industry. As far as pigments are concerned, there are also chromium VI-free alternatives, although their cost and performance may vary.
