Meeting High Performance Decorative Chromium Plating Specifications using Trivalent Chrome Plating Systems

Decorative chromium electroplating from an electrolyte based on chromium trioxide has been successfully used for many years. The deposit satisfies many demands including aesthetics, durability and economy. However, chromium trioxide is classified as carcinogenic and PFOS (which is used as a mist suppressant in these processes) has been shown to be bio accumulative. A PFOS free system based on trivalent chromium sulphate salts is proposed which avoids these issues and is capable of meeting recognised high performance standards. Production experience proves that this new system is able to satisfy even the most demanding automotive chromium plating applications.

This paper will identify the issues driving platers to consider alternative technology, outline why supply chain partners need to be aware of these issues and explain why this new trivalent chromium technology is now a viable alternative to traditional hexavalent chrome plating processes.