Chrome plating is a popular form of surface treatment that has been used to enhance other materials for many years. That does not mean it is without issues. Spray coatings may mitigate some of the problems.
What is chrome plating?
As the name suggests, chrome plating involves attaching a layer of chrome to another surface, usually to protect it from corrosion, friction and general wear and tear, sometimes also for aesthetic purposes. There are different ways to apply chrome, with traditional hard chrome plating such as that at poeton.co.uk/advanced-treatments/apticote-100-hard-chrome/, involving immersing the surface in an electrolyte bath. Chrome spray coatings involve delivering the chrome in aerosolised form.
The issues with chrome plating
The chrome plating process, particularly through the electrolyte bath, uses toxic chemicals such as lead, cyanide and cadmium, all of which are highly dangerous to human health. Hexavalent chromium is a known carcinogen. Not only are these hazardous to workers and potentially even people living in the area, if they are disposed of improperly, they are harmful to the environment. They could contaminate soil or groundwater and damage local ecosystems.
Why spray chrome coatings are better
They may not be suitable to replace chrome plating in all circumstances, but spray coatings are still durable and effective, plus they are cheaper, easier to apply, and most importantly, can be performed without utilising heavy metals and other toxic chemicals.
Spray chrome coatings are considered a safer option because they can convey the protective benefits of chrome plating without the same risk to the environment and human health.