Chromium

Chromium is a steely-gray, lustrous, hard metal that takes a high polish and has a high melting point. It is also odorless, tasteless, and malleable. Chromium was regarded with great interest because of its high corrosion resistance and hardness. A major development was the discovery that steel could be made highly resistant to corrosion and discoloration by adding chromium and nickel to form stainless steel.

The toxicity and carcinogenic properties of chromium(VI) have been known for a long time. An actual investigation into hexavalent chromium release into drinking water was used as the plot-basis of the motion picture Erin Brockovich. Because of the specific transport mechanisms, only limited amounts of chromium enter the cells. Several in vitro studies indicated that high concentrations of chromium in the cell can lead to DNA damage.

The acute toxicity of chromium(VI) is due to its strong oxidational properties. After it reaches the blood stream, it damages the kidneys, the liver and blood cells through oxidation reactions. Hemolysis, renal and liver failure are the results of these damages.

Regular activated carbon water filters cannot remove chromium from tap water. A reverse osmosis system will remove 93-98% of chromium (VI).

* Some info courtesy of Wikipedia.

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