Chromates biological effects

The biological effects of chromate are apparent in three main areas mutagenicity and carcinogenicity, an adverse immune response and the use of chromate in clinical chemistry to tag erythrocytes. The clinical use of chromate has recently been reviewed1441 and although reviews of the immune response to chromate are available1442 little is known of the chemistry involved this is surprising as chromate present in cement is a major cause of dermatitis. 

The toxicity of chromate treatment has led to the development of alternative anodic inhibitors. Orthophosphate forms an iron phosphate film that protects the surface fi om corrosion attack, but the layer is less adherent and therefore is not so long lasting, as chromate derived protection. At the same time orthophosphate corrosion control can be made effective provided the system is properly managed. Because of the biological nutrient properties of orthophosphates it is likely that their use will additionally involve the application of a biocide. 

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