Chromium — Properties, Industrial Uses & Environmental Toxicity


Chemical Symbol

Cr

Important Oxidation States

  • Cr(III) → comparatively less toxic and biologically relevant.

  • Cr(VI) → highly toxic and carcinogenic.

Industrial Uses

  • Stainless steel.

  • Chrome plating.

  • Leather tanning.

  • Paints/pigments.

  • Corrosion protection.

  • Wood preservation.

Environmental Concern

Cr(VI) contamination can enter:

  • Groundwater.

  • Surface water.

  • Soil.

Industries involving chrome plating and leather processing can be sources of chromium pollution.

Health

Cr(VI) exposure has carcinogenic potential; IARC classifies hexavalent chromium compounds as Group 1 carcinogens.

Prelims

Cr(III) ≠ Cr(VI) in toxicity.