ATSDR - Toxic Substances - Chromium
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Chromium

CAS ID #: 7440-47-3

Affected Organ Systems: Immunological (Immune System), Renal (Urinary System or Kidneys), Respiratory (From the Nose to the Lungs)

Cancer Classification: EPA: Hexavalent chromium – inhalation – confirmed human carcinogen; oral – Not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity. There is inadequate or no human and animal evidence of carcinog. IARC: Hexavalent chromium – carcinogenic to humans. NTP: Known to be a human carcinogen

Please contact NTP, IARC, or EPA’s IRIS Hotline 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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