General data

Chromic acid flakes (CrO3) are reddish-orange, highly oxidizing, and water-soluble crystals primarily used for chromium electroplating, metal passivation, and surface treatment. They are essential in industrial applications for providing decorative/hard chrome finishes, cleaning metals, and wood preservation. Due to their corrosive and toxic nature, they require careful handling.

Key Aspects and Uses of Chromic Acid Flakes:

• Chemical Properties: Known as chromium trioxide. these flakes are a powerful oxidizing agent. They are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture from the air, and readily dissolve in water.
• Metal Finishing & Plating: A primary use is in electroplating to produce durable, corrosion-resistant chrome coatings on metals and plastics (automotive, appliance industries). They are also used for anodizing aluminium and passivating metals like stainless steel to enhance durability.
• Cleaning & Etching: Used to clean laboratory glassware by removing insoluble organic residues. They are effective for etching and cleaning metal surfaces.
• Industrial Applications:
• Wood Preservative: Applied to telephone poles, marine pilings, and timbers
• Chemical Synthesis: Employed as an oxidant in organic chemistry.
• Manufacturing: Used in the production of pigments, catalysts, and ceramic glazes.
• Instrument Repair: Utilized to "brighten" raw brass in musical instrument repair.