The European Commission has granted authorisation for the continued use of chromium trioxide in select industrial processes, as per the latest update in the realm of chemicals legislation. This decision, detailed in document C/2023/1017, is a significant development under the REACH regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), specifically concerning substances listed in Annex XIV.
Dated 20th November 2023, the decision (C(2023) 7740) allows Keuco AG & Co. KG, a company based in Hemer, Germany, to use chromium trioxide (EC No. 215-607-8, CAS No. 1333-82-0) in specific applications. The authorised uses include the electroplating of various substrates to achieve durable, high-quality surfaces with either a bright or matt silvery appearance, primarily for sanitary applications. Additionally, the substance is approved for use in the etching of plastics as a pre-treatment step in electroplating processes.
This authorisation, bearing the numbers REACH/23/23/0 and REACH/23/23/1, is valid until 31st December 2028. The decision was made following a thorough evaluation under Article 60(4) of the REACH Regulation. It was concluded that the socio-economic benefits of using chromium trioxide in these specific contexts significantly outweigh the risks to human health and the environment. Moreover, the Commission determined that there are currently no suitable alternative substances or technologies available that can replicate the results achieved by chromium trioxide in these applications.
For stakeholders in the chemicals industry, this decision underscores the importance of balancing economic and functional needs with health and environmental safety. It also highlights the ongoing need for innovation in finding safer alternatives to hazardous substances.
