Metals
Chromium
Present in different oxidation states, which affects interpretation.
What is Chromium?
Chromium occurs in water principally as trivalent or hexavalent chromium, which behave differently.
Why test for it?
Total chromium is commonly reported, with speciation available where a project specifically requires it.
Where can it come from?
- Stainless steel and plated components
- Industrial processes and legacy sites
- Natural geology
How is it measured?
Total chromium is determined by ICP-MS. Speciated analysis is arranged separately when hexavalent chromium is the parameter of interest.
What does my result mean?
A total chromium result does not distinguish between species; if speciation matters for your decision, it should be specified at the design stage.