Chrome VI and leather The presence in leather of what is generally called ’Chrome Six’ is an undesired effect related to the use of chrome tanning agents. Since tanning with chrome salts constitutes roughly 80% of the processing technology worldwide, the debate about the risk for its presence is too important to be based on hearsay instead of facts. Download the whitepaper and learn about: The background on Chromium VI Its relation to wetblue The risks Ways to avoid it Available test methods Download the whitepaper on Chrome VI My email address** First name**Last name**Company name**Stay informed Please keep me informed about the latest news on Royal Smit & Zoon and the leather industry.Consent* I have read and accepted the Terms & conditions and Privacy Statement.NameThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Δ What is Chromium VI? What we call ’Chrome Six’ is chemically known as Cr(VI) or Cr6+. Cr(VI) is one of the possible forms of the element chromium. These different forms are expressed as oxidation states. For chromium, from now onwards to be called ‘chrome’, they are: +6 +5 +4 +3 +2 +1 0 and -1 -2. For tanners the trivalent and hexavalent states are of importance. During tanning trivalent Cr3+ is used. This oxidation state is causing its green colour when the element reacts with oxygen to Cr2O3. It enables the production of green pigments and gives emeralds their incomparable colour. Cr3+ is also a trace element essential for our bodies to function. The hexavalent Cr6+ is used as an intermediate in metallurgy and in chemical synthesis. This intermediate step strips chrome of its impurities and is necessary before chrome can be used as ingredient for the various purposes. Cr6+ has a known toxicity and is classified as CMR (Cancerogenic – Mutagenic – Reprotoxic). Interesting for you Discover more on Chemicals & substances What chemicals are used to tan leather? The most used chemical to tan leather is chromium III. Other chemicals used in tanning are aldehyde, vegetable tannins and zeolites. Renewable chemicals: replacing fossil-based by biobased ingredients What biobased materials can be used to replace petrochemicals? Discover our alternatives and criteria. Restrictions on Chrome VI Restriction is one of the available instruments in EU-REACh to protect human health and the environment from unacceptable risks posed by chemicals. Chemicals & substances Discover Stay informed Receive the latest company news and industry updates Subscribe Share this:
