Chromium-6 Neutralizer

SEEF Chrome-6 Neutralizer

During maintenance and revision of CHP units, ship engines, diesel engines, and gas turbines, chromium-6 dust may be released from the insulation parts. That dust is formed because the chromium in stainless steel (RVS) oxidizes from chromium-3 to the carcinogenic chromium-6 during prolonged heating. It is recognizable by a yellow discoloration. The SEEF Chrome-6 Neutralizer is an acid-based, biodegradable liquid that converts Cr(VI) on-site to chromium-3. By simultaneously wetting the dust, the product also prevents dust particles from entering the air.

SEEF B.V. has researched this product in August 2025 for effectiveness, storage, and application. The findings are recorded in a Eco-Point Chrome-6 Neutralizer PR269 – SEEF Certificate.

Suitable for use on chrome-containing paint?

Nee. The Chrome-6 Neutralizer is not intended for Cr(VI) in paint and preservation systems. Chromium-6 in dry paint does not dissolve in the neutralizer solution in the same way as the substance does, causing the conversion to not occur or to occur incompletely.

For the analysis of Cr(VI) in dry paint, we refer to our laboratory analysis.

Scope of application

The neutralizer is suitable when Cr(VI) compounds are present in a soluble or easily accessible form. That is the case with dust that accumulates under insulation parts of:

• WKK’s (combined heat and power): at horticulturists, power plants, and industrial installations
• ship engines
• diesel engines
• gas turbines

Do not use the product on acid-sensitive surfaces such as marble or natural stone. Test in case of doubt first on a small, inconspicuous area to check if the material is resistant.

The Occupational Health and Safety Act requires employers to address carcinogenic substances at the source. The SEEF Chrome-6 Neutralizer is a practical tool within it. The other protective measures that apply when working with Cr(VI) remain in effect.

How does the product work?

The liquid has a pH of 3.5 and is colorless upon purchase. Due to its acidic nature, it undergoes a chemical reaction with Cr(VI), converting chromium-6 to chromium-3. Chromium-3 is not carcinogenic. By simultaneously moistening the dust, the product prevents further dispersion into the air. Both effects together reduce the exposure risk at the treated site.

Chromium-6 that is not accessible to the liquid, such as encapsulated dust or particles already present in the air, is not neutralized by this product. Always follow the safety protocols that apply to working in a Cr(VI) environment.

User manual

The Chrome-6 Neutralizer is ready to use; dilution is not necessary.

Step 1: Cool down. Ensure that the surface has cooled down to approximately room temperature, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. On a too warm substrate, the liquid evaporates too quickly and the exposure time is insufficient.

Step 2: Application. Screw the trigger onto the bottle. Spray the liquid on the suspicious areas. Ensure adequate wetting of the entire surface.

Step 3: Onboarding. Leave the product on for at least 15 minutes. Keep the surface wet during this time.

Step 4: Check. After the induction period, conduct a test to determine whether the treatment has been effective (see below).

Step 5: Repeat if necessary. If Cr(VI) is still present after the test, repeat the treatment. If you continue to receive positive test results, contact SEEF for advice.

Always follow the procedures for working with chrome-6 in accordance with occupational safety regulations. Also consult the safety data sheet (SDS) of this product.

Check result

Use the SEEF ST01 Swab Test for a quick indicative check before and after the treatment. A negative swab result is, however, not reliable: a negative result does not rule out the presence of Cr(VI). Follow a negative result in that case with the SEEF TK01 Testkit or send samples for laboratory analysis.

If the result after treatment is positive, then the neutralization was insufficient. Repeat the treatment. In complex situations, seek specialist advice through SEEF or Eco-Point.

Storage and shelf life

Store the product in a dark place, unopened and below 25°C. Under these circumstances, it remains fully operational for about two years. Preferably use fresh batches; the effectiveness decreases as the product gets older.

Discoloration of the liquid to yellow, orange, or red is normal and is not a reason to stop using the product. In case of a strong dark brown color, replacement is recommended.

Protect the product against frost.

Safety

The Chrome-6 Neutralizer is not subject to CLP labeling requirements and is exempt from transport regulations (ADR, RID, ADN, IMDG, and ICAO-IATA). The product is biodegradable in accordance with Regulation (EC) No. 648/2004.

Draag bij toepassing oogbescherming en chemisch bestendige handschoenen (CR, IIR, FKM of nitrilrubber, dikte >0,5 mm, doorbraaktijd >480 minuten conform EN 374). Ensure adequate ventilation.

The complete safety data sheet is available upon request.

This product reduces the exposure risk to Cr(VI) substance, but does not guarantee complete elimination. It is part of a broader management approach: assess the situation, take the safety measures that apply to working with Cr(VI), and measure where necessary.

Questions or more information?

Take contact up with SEEF. We advise you on the right approach, the necessary PPE, and how you can monitor and document the treatment.