Objective Hexavalent chromium compounds are extensively utilised in the surface treatment of metals and metal plated surfaces. The technique is commonly known as conversion coating or surface chromating. The purpose of this method is to increase resistance to corrosion and oxidation, eg. prior to coating and painting. Applications include zinc, cadmium, tin and silver metal platings and uncoated metals such as steel, silver, copper and its alloys.The utilisation of Cr(VI) compounds is under threat in response to the highly corrosive and toxic nature of these materials. High concentrations of Cr(VI) compounds are used during the treatment process creating severe safety and effluent problems. Pre-competitive research is therefore essential to identify effective substitutes and maintain industrial competitiveness.It is proposed to investigate the mechanism by which Cr(VI) exerts its influence on the corrosion resistance of metal surfaces. The techniques and understanding developed will then be applied to the study of substitute processes. Two general approaches will be adopted. Firstly, a method will be explored which involves handling Cr(III) chemicals only. These have a very low toxicity and are not corrosive. Generation of the active Cr(VI) species will only take place in situ by electrochemical polarization of the metal being treated. Cr(VI) will therefore only be present in the film attached to the metal surface.Secondly, it is proposed to examine alternative systems with no chromium present eg. other oxidising species with very positive redox potentials such as vanadates and appropriate complexing agents such as organic acids.The methods involve the use of much less hazardous and toxic chemical with a greatly diminished environmental impact. The combination of the new approaches proposed and the strong pressures to replace Cr(VI) provide a powerful incentive for the initiation of research into this topic. Fields of science natural scienceschemical sciencesorganic chemistryorganic acidshumanitiesartsvisual artsnatural scienceschemical sciencesinorganic chemistrytransition metalsnatural scienceschemical sciencesinorganic chemistrypost-transition metalsengineering and technologymaterials engineeringcoating and films Programme(s) FP3-ENV 1C - Specific research and technological development programme (EEC) in the field of the environment, 1990-1994 Topic(s) 0202 - Technologies for protecting and rehabilitating the environment Call for proposal Data not available Funding Scheme CSC - Cost-sharing contracts Coordinator EA TECHNOLOGY LTD. EU contribution No data Address Capenhurst CHESTER United Kingdom See on map Links Website Opens in new window Total cost No data Participants (3) Sort alphabetically Sort by EU Contribution Expand all Collapse all FUNDACION INASMET - ASOCIACION DE INVESTIGATION METALURGICA DEL PAIS VASCO Spain EU contribution No data Address 12,Mikeletegi Pasealekua 2 20009 SAN SEBASTIAN See on map Total cost No data Inter Euro Technology Ltd Ireland EU contribution No data Address Green Road 41 Carlow See on map Total cost No data NATIONAL LABORATORY FOR ENGINEERING AND INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY Portugal EU contribution No data Address Estrada do Paco do Lumiar 22 1649-038 LISBOA See on map Total cost No data
