Toxicology Assessment for Safer Alternatives for Readiness (SAFR) Work Unit TMR 15-01: Chromium Free Coating Tartaric Sulfuric Acid Anodizing (TSAA)
Abstract
Anodizing is an electrolytic process that increases the natural surface layer of oxide on the surface of metal parts, thereby increasing resistance to corrosion and wear. Chromic acid anodizing (CAA) has traditionally been used by the U.S. Army but the solutions utilized not only pose a significant human health hazard, but also require special handling for disposal that is technically complex and has high associated costs. In this work unit, the replacement of chromic acid (hexavalent chromium), a known carcinogenic metal, with a less toxic formulation for anodizing aluminum parts will reduce risks to occupational health and as well as environmental impact. While the tartaric sulfuric acid anodizing (TSAA) process includes chromium in trivalent form (Cr(III)), this form of chromium is considered non-carcinogenic, with the removal of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) representing an important hazard reduction over legacy approaches to aluminum anodizing.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 28, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1118240
Entities
People
- Desmond I Bannon
- Valerie H. Adams
Organizations
- United States Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine