Four-step protocol detects Chromium 6

In 2017, the first alarm reports appeared. The presence of Chromium 6 in coatings is extremely harmful to our health. But the knowledge was lacking. Where and how were organizations to start investigating this high-risk substance? Now - two years later - we have a four-step protocol, which can be used to detect the presence of Chromium 6 hair-trigger.

Since 2017, several methods have been developed to track Chromium 6; each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The method that leads to the most reliable statement is that of SGS. Namely, this method determines in four steps whether Chromium 6 is present, including the amount and content in which the substance was applied.

Direct contact risks

"Chrome 6 is all around us," knows Wil Klarenaar, materials researcher at SGS. "Even when you don't expect it. It can be in the coatings of curbs, fences, bridges, boats and vehicles. Fortunately, it is usually not dangerous. As long as there is no direct contact, there is nothing wrong. The nasty effects can occur if the coating is worked on, such as by grinding or sanding."

Step 1 of the SGS research protocol.

Tricky to investigate

When the risks of Chromium 6 were known, there was a great need for a method by which the presence of Chromium 6 could be determined before working with the materials. But that proved to be a difficult task. Klarenaar: "Chrome 6 is applied for a reason. For example, it gives excellent adhesion. That makes it difficult to remove. Moreover, it is reactive. As soon as Chrome 6 comes into contact with another substance, it can turn into Chrome 3 just like that."

Four-step protocol

SGS' four-step protocol overcomes these problems. In step 1, a portable measuring device is used to scan whether chromium has been applied at the inspection site. In step 2, a distinction is made on site between Chromium 6 and other chromium types. During step 3, the content of the substance is determined in the laboratory, and during the final step, the electron microscope is used to see where in the paint the Chromium 6 has been applied. "These four steps are guaranteed to lead to a reliable statement," assures Klarenaar.