Finding Alternatives to Cadmium in Aerospace Applications

It is both an exciting and a difficult time for the aerospace industry. While the sector is at its most buoyant with demand soaring in the commercial market, this is placing a strain on the manufacturing supply chain, and putting the MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) market under pressure to keep aircraft in operation for as long as possible. In addition, OEMs and MRO businesses are being forced to consider potential ever-evolving legislation, particularly regarding the use of various chemicals used in the plating process, most notably the use of cadmium. This toxic metal has long been the topic of debate in the industry, with companies facing the threat of a European ban on cadmium being extended to the global aerospace industry if studies into possible alternatives prove fruitful.