What Is Hexavalent Chromium (Chromate)?
Hexavalent chromium, commonly present in water as the chromate ion (CrO₄²⁻), is a highly reactive form of chromium used in numerous industrial processes. While chromium occurs naturally in soils and groundwater, its oxidation state determines its behavior and environmental impact. Trivalent chromium (Cr(III)) is far less mobile and less toxic, whereas hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is a regulated contaminant due to its solubility, persistence, and health risks.
Chromate compounds have historically been used in:
- Metal finishing and electroplating
- Pigment and dye manufacturing
- Corrosion inhibition in cooling systems
- Chemical production and industrial coatings
Although many industries have transitioned to safer alternatives, chromate may still appear in wastewater, cooling systems, and process water streams, making reliable testing essential.
Why Test for Chromate?
Monitoring chromate levels is critical for both environmental protection and process control.
- Regulatory compliance: Facilities must ensure that hexavalent chromium discharges remain within permitted limits.
- Cooling system management: In systems where chromate is still used, testing helps maintain effective corrosion control without overdosing.
- Environmental stewardship: Hexavalent chromium is a known toxicant, making accurate monitoring essential for preventing contamination.
- Industrial quality assurance: Manufacturers track chromate levels to maintain consistent process conditions.
Because Cr(VI) is both mobile and hazardous, routine testing ensures safe operation and compliance with environmental standards.
Our Chromate (Hexavalent) Test Kits
CHEMetrics provides both visual and instrumental test kits designed specifically for detecting hexavalent chromium in water. These kits do not measure trivalent chromium.
CHEMets® Visual Chromate Test Kits
These colorimetric kits offer a simple, field‑ready method for determining chromate concentration.
- Produces a red‑violet color proportional to Cr(VI) levels
- Results are matched against a color comparator
- Reported in ppm (mg/L) CrO₄
- Ideal for quick screening and routine monitoring
Vacu‑vials® Instrumental Chromate Test Kits
For users who require higher precision or digital documentation, the Vacu‑vials® method provides enhanced accuracy.
- Also develops a red‑violet color
- Compatible with CHEMetrics direct‑readout photometers
- Works with any spectrophotometer that accepts a 13‑mm round cell
- Suitable for laboratory analysis and compliance reporting
Both methods deliver fast, dependable results for environmental, industrial, and cooling‑system applications.
Browse Our Kits
All CHEMetrics chromate test kits, along with a full range of water‑quality testing supplies, are available through the AquaPhoenix Scientific eStore.