Chromium

Chromium (CAS 7440-47-3, EC 231-157-5, formula Cr) is a naturally occurring metallic element traded under references including Chrome, Chrom, and CR008010. It belongs to the Salts & Minerals category and carries HS code 8112 21 90. No E-code designation applies to this substance.

In coatings and surface treatment, chromium compounds act as corrosion inhibitors by forming a passive oxide layer that blocks electrochemical attack on base metals. In catalysis, chromium oxide-based systems drive dehydrogenation and polymerisation reactions at the process level. Personal care formulations use trivalent chromium as a skin conditioner and colorant in controlled concentrations.

Chromium is available in elemental powder form and as various inorganic salts, with grade selection determined by application and regulatory context. Suppliers operating under REACH must provide compliant Safety Data Sheets, and hexavalent chromium compounds are subject to strict authorisation requirements under REACH Annex XIV. Packaging formats typically follow standard industrial conventions for metal powders and mineral salts.