Dosage of chromium VI (hexavalent chromium)

The analysis ofhexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) allows for the detection and quantification of this highly toxic form of chromium in industrial materials, polymers, water, soil, and packaging. Classified as a carcinogen and strictly regulated by REACH and RoHS, hexavalent chromium is subject to rigorous controls. At YesWeLab, this analysis is entrusted to partner laboratories selected according to your specific matrix, detection thresholds, and regulatory requirements.

Why measure hexavalent chromium?

Unlike trivalent chromium (Cr(III)), an essential and relatively harmless trace element, hexavalent chromium is a substance of concern due to its toxicity, carcinogenicity, and mobility in the environment. It is found in metallic coatings, surface treatments, tanned leather, certain pigments, and plastics. Determining hexavalent chromium (Cr(III)) is essential for verifying compliance with REACH restrictions (Annex XVII) and the RoHS directive applicable to electrical and electronic equipment, as well as for assessing water quality and soil pollution. It protects both user health and the environment.

Chromium VI analysis techniques

Quantifying hexavalent chromium requires methods capable of distinguishing Cr(VI) from total chromium:

• Diphenylcarbazide colorimetry : reference method, specific to chromium VI, offering excellent sensitivity.
• Ion exchange chromatography : to selectively separate and quantify chromium species.
• ICP-MS and ICP-AES / ICP-OES : for the measurement of very low concentrations and elemental analysis.

The choice of technique depends on the matrix (polymer, water, soil, packaging) and the required limit of quantification. Our scientific team will guide you toward the method best suited to your compliance requirements.

A regulatory and environmental challenge

Primarily falling under the purview of the environmental and physicochemical analysis sectors , chromium VI analysis is part of a regulatory compliance and contaminant control process. It concerns industries subject to RoHS and REACH regulations, packaging manufacturers, surface treatment companies, and environmental consulting firms

Accredited laboratories and expert support

At YesWeLab, we collaborate with a carefully selected network of laboratories, most of which are certified and/or accredited (ISO 17025, COFRAC, etc.). These laboratories are chosen based on your specific needs, the matrices to be analyzed, and the required analytical techniques or methods. If you have any particular requirements, please specify them in your request: our scientific team will do everything possible to respond accurately and promptly.

Since 2020, many manufacturers, distributors and design offices have trusted us to manage their analyses, entrusting us with their samples via our digital platform.

Additional analyses

For comprehensive heavy metal testing and RoHS/REACH compliance, chromium VI analysis is combined with other analyses offered by YesWeLab:

• Lead dosage — a heavy metal also restricted by RoHS.
• Cadmium testing — to complement the control of regulated substances.
• Analysis of environmental contaminants — for comprehensive environmental monitoring.
• Soil, sediment and mineral analysis — to characterize your solid matrices.

You can also explore our analyses by technique: ICP-MS and ICP-AES/ICP-OES.

Request your chromium VI test

To learn more or submit a specific request, add this analysis to your quote or contact our team now. We offer a customized solution, from method selection to results interpretation.