Contribution of toxic elements: Hexavalent chromium in materials used in the manufacture of cement

One of the problems currently affecting certain industries, and more specifically cement companies, is the need to determine and control the content of water soluble hexavalent chromium because, due to its toxic effects, it may soon be regulated. The study covers the determination of hexavalent chromium in materials related to the construction sector, namely raw materials, clinker and additions. Spectrophotometric and inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry (ICP) techniques are compared. Also included is the setting up of the most favourable test conditions for chromate extraction and a study of possible interferences in the colorimetric quantification.