• Date 2022-05-31

Due to its carcinogenic properties, chromium(VI) is a substance of very high concern (SVHC) under the Chemical Regulation (EU) No 1907/2006 (REACH Regulation). Since the end of 2017, there has been an authorisation requirement for chromium(VI) under REACH in the European Union (EU), i.e. an application must be submitted to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) for use, import and making available on the EU market. The affected sectors are therefore looking for ways to substitute chromium(VI) in surface treatments, e.g. in the sanitary sector.

In a study conducted by the BAuA in 2022, three case studies from companies were collected which use the substance chromium(III) as an alternative for chromium(VI). In this case, it is even possible for the companies to avoid another substance of concern, namely nickel, in the surface treatment of sanitary installations.

Read more about the practical examples:

437-EN Substitution of chromium trioxide and nickel in the electroplating of sanitary appliances by a nickel free trivalent chromium process to prevent nickel leaching into drinking water

438-EN Substitution of chromium trioxide and nickel in the electroplating of sanitary appliances by a nickel free trivalent chromium process to prevent nickel leaching into drinking water

439-EN Substitution of chromium trioxide in the electroplating of sanitary appliances by a trivalent chromium process

You can find these and more examples of chromium(VI) substitution in the case story database.

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