Chromium

CAS ID#: 7440-47-3

Affected Organ Systems: Cancer, Dermal (Skin), Gastrointestinal (Stomach and Intestines, part of the digestive system), Hematological (Blood Forming), Reproductive (Producing Children), Respiratory (From the Nose to the Lungs)

Cancer Classification: Please contact NTP, IARC, or EPA with questions on cancer and cancer classification.

Chemical Classification: Inorganic substances

Summary: Chromium is a naturally occurring element found in rocks, animals, plants, soil, and in volcanic dust and gases. Chromium is present in the environment in several different forms. The most common forms are chromium(0), chromium(III), and chromium(VI). No taste or odor is associated with chromium compounds. Chromium(III) occurs naturally in the environment and is an essential nutrient. Chromium(VI) and chromium(0) are generally produced by industrial processes. The metal chromium, which is the chromium(0) form, is used for making steel. Chromium(VI) and chromium(III) are used for chrome plating, dyes and pigments, leather tanning, and wood preserving.

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Page last reviewed: February 10, 2021

Content source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry