The drive for this technology was the major environmental issue facing industry to replace or limit the use of Chromic Acid. Replacement of the process with a more environmentally friendly method, using less harmful chemicals is not an easy issue. Light Environmental Inc. has solved this problem by developing Chromic Acid Recycling technology.
Prior to anodizing, aluminum is frequently etched in a sulphuric/chromic solution or Tri-Acid solution. These processes become less efficient over time due to trivalent chromium content, which leads to a gradual increase in density, (large specified free chrome and acidity concentration). Unless treated to improve its quality, the bath presents the user with an expensive disposal problem due to the chrome present and the high acidity of the solution. Chromox technology yields oxidation of trivalent chromium and maintenance of acidity.
Specific Advantages of Regenerating Chromic Acid:
- No loss of Chromic Acid
- No regeneration chemicals and no risk of sulphate contamination
- Eliminates chloride build up
- Stable process control
- Reduced effluent volumes
- Chemical addition required only for drag out losses
- Modular concept to cater for increased production load
- Reduce the need for chemical handling
- Pay back in less than 2 years
