Removing Hexavalent Chromium (CrVI) by 2013
Ceram is actively engaged in work both to characterise chromium containing coatings, by measuring trivalent CrIII and hexavalent CrVI, and to develop new anti-corrosion coatings and plating technologies as effective alternatives.
Using advanced surface analytical methods Ceram can determine the concentrations of both CrIII and CrVI on a sample surface and also by depth within the coating or treatment layer.
CrVI is a bio-available toxin, proven dangerous to the environment and human and animnal life and under EU regulation must be removed from product formulations by 2013 (http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/business/topics/pollution/138.aspx).
CrVI is present in several products and processes and is of particular concern in the coating and plating industries where chromium is an extensively used, long understood, metal protector - capable of mitigating the corrosion process. Ceram is a core partner in the work being undertaken to produce safe alternatives with similar properties of protection.
Manufacturers and assemblers who want to provide assurance that their coated surface meets the new reglation will need to provide relevant chemical determinations in order to offer assurances that there is no bio available or leachable CrVI at or near the surface of their products.
Ceram operates a proven chemical measurement service which can provide continuous assurance of conformance to current and future regulations.
This quantitative measurement of elemental species and their oxidation states is available for all the metallic elements. This makes Ceram a critical partner for the development of alternative formulations and for the characterisation of both new and existing metal surface coatings and treatments.
Case Studies:
Removing Chromium by 2013 - Development of New Anti-Corrosion Coatings
Critical technology review carried out in partnership with Indestructible Paint Ltd
