Chromium Metal, Pure Chromium, Pure Chrome, 7440-47-3

CHROMIUM METAL (PURE CHROMIUM)

PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

    Chromium Metal (Cr)
    
    Body-Centered Cubic (BCC) Crystal Structure
    
         Cr  Cr  Cr  Cr
           \  |  /  |
            Cr Cr Cr Cr
           /  |  \  |
         Cr  Cr  Cr  Cr
    
    Body-Centered Cubic (BCC) Crystal Structure
    Magnetic Ordering: Antiferromagnetic (at 38°C)

Molecular Formula: Cr (Elemental)
Crystal Structure: Body-Centered Cubic (BCC)
Electron Configuration: [Ar] 3d⁵ 4s¹
Oxidation States: +2, +3, +6 (primary)
Magnetic Ordering: Antiferromagnetic (at 38°C)

SECTION 1: CHEMICAL IDENTITY AND DEFINITION

SECTION 2: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

SECTION 3: CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIVITY

SECTION 4: COMPARISON OF CHROMIUM AND RELATED METALS

SECTION 5: PRODUCTION METHODS

Method 1: Aluminothermic Method (Goldschmidt Process)

• Reaction: Cr₂O₃ + 2Al → 2Cr + Al₂O₃ (at high temperature)

• Description: Chromium oxide (Cr₂O₃) is reacted with aluminum powder; Exothermic reaction produces chromium metal; High-purity chromium is obtained; Used for specialized applications

Method 2: Electrolytic Method (Most Common)

• Process: Chromium ore → Chromium oxide → Electrolysis → Pure chromium

• Reaction: Cr³⁺ + 3e⁻ → Cr (deposition at cathode)

• Description: Chromium salt solution (chromium sulfate or chromium chloride) is electrolyzed; Pure chromium deposits on the cathode; High-purity chromium (99.9%+) is obtained; Most common industrial production method

Method 3: Silicothermic Method

• Reaction: Cr₂O₃ + Si → 2Cr + SiO₂ (at high temperature)

• Description: Chromium oxide is reacted with silicon; Chromium metal is formed; Used for lower-purity products

Method 4: Direct Reduction from Chromium Ore

• Process: Chromite ore (FeCr₂O₄) → Roasting → Leaching → Purification → Reduction → Chromium metal

• Description: Chromite ore is processed; Sodium chromate is formed; Chromium metal is obtained by reduction

SECTION 6: FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES AND MECHANISM OF ACTION

SECTION 7: MAIN APPLICATION AREAS

SECTION 8: QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS (ELECTROLYTIC CHROMIUM)

SECTION 9: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE

SECTION 10: GHS CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING

GHS Classification (Compliant with CLP and UN GHS):

Note: Metallic chromium is generally considered non-hazardous. However, dust may cause respiratory irritation. Chromium(VI) compounds are classified separately.

Signal Word: No signal word required (non-hazardous) or WARNING (optional)

Hazard Pictograms: GHS07 (optional)

Hazard Statements (H-Codes) - if classified:

NFPA 704 Hazard Classification:

SECTION 11: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)

SECTION 12: FIRST AID MEASURES

SECTION 13: FIREFIGHTING MEASURES

SECTION 14: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

SECTION 15: PACKAGING OPTIONS

SECTION 16: TRANSPORT INFORMATION

SECTION 17: REGULATORY STATUS

SECTION 18: OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS

SECTION 19: SUMMARY TABLE

SECTION 20: CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

• Non-hazardous material but dust may cause respiratory tract irritation.

• Non-combustible. Does not burn. Stable at high temperatures.

• Powder form may be combustible. Avoid dust generation.

• Chromium(VI) compounds (chromates, dichromates) are carcinogenic and toxic. Metallic chromium does not contain these compounds, but conversion is possible during processing.

• Passive oxide layer (Cr₂O₃) provides corrosion resistance.

• Very hard. Special equipment required for processing.

• Incompatibilities: Keep away from strong oxidizing agents and halogens.

• Hygiene Requirement: Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Stainless Steel Production: Critical component for corrosion resistance in stainless steels; Type 304 (18% Cr, 8% Ni), Type 316 (16% Cr, 10% Ni, 2% Mo); Provides strength and corrosion resistance.

• Electroplating (Chrome Plating): Decorative and hard chromium plating applications; Bright, corrosion-resistant surface; Automotive parts, industrial equipment; Used as anode in electrolytic chromium baths.

• Tool Steels: Provides hardness and wear resistance; Cutting tools, die steels; Chromium-containing tool steels (e.g., D2, A2).

• Handling: Use in well-ventilated areas; Avoid dust generation; Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and appropriate respiratory protection.

• Personal Protective Equipment: Protective gloves (nitrile, neoprene), safety goggles, protective clothing, NIOSH-approved dust mask (if dust).

• Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling; Do not eat, drink, or smoke when using; Do not take contaminated working clothes home; Shower at the end of the work shift.

• Storage: Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area; Protect from moisture; Keep away from oxidizing agents and halogens.

• Spill Response: Avoid dust generation; Vacuum or sweep; Place in closed containers; Do not allow to enter drains or waterways.

• Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations; Chromium is recyclable; Recycle where possible.

SPECIAL NOTE ON CHROMIUM(VI) COMPOUNDS:

Chromium(VI) compounds (chromates, dichromates) differ from metallic chromium:

• Toxicity: Chromium(VI) compounds are carcinogenic (IARC Group 1)

• Source: Can be formed during processing of metallic chromium

• Precaution: Use respiratory protection during welding, cutting, grinding operations

• Exposure Limit: 0.05 mg/m³ (OSHA PEL)

• Monitoring: Regular air quality monitoring

SPECIAL NOTE ON CHROMIUM'S ROLE IN STAINLESS STEEL:

Chromium is the most critical component of stainless steel:

• Minimum Chromium: ≥10.5% Cr required for stainless steel classification

• Protection Mechanism: Forms passive chromium oxide (Cr₂O₃) layer on surface

• Self-Healing: Oxide layer reforms if scratched

• Corrosion Resistance: Increases with chromium content

• Grades: 304 (18% Cr), 316 (16% Cr), 430 (17% Cr)

LEGAL DISCLAIMER:

The information provided in this document is based on our current knowledge and experience and is presented in good faith. However, as all conditions of use are beyond our control, this document does not constitute a binding specification or warranty. This Technical Data Sheet is for informational purposes only. Users are responsible for testing suitability for their own applications. For complete safety, storage, handling, transportation, waste, and regulatory compliance information, please refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier.