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Q&As since 1989
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Re-Use of Trivalent Chrome Filter Cake
Q. Due to the enforcement of new regulations on waste disposal in the U.K., the disposal of waste filter cake produced in the reduction of hexavalent chrome to trivalent chrome has become expensive and problematic. We are currently trying to investigate the possibility of selling/passing the filter cake on to companies who may use this, as we have been advised it may be possible. Any help, information or guidance anyone can provide on this matter would be greatly appreciated.
Stuart HaynesStrategic Treatments Facility - Stalybridge, Manchester, U.K.
2004
A. There is a company in the U.S. called INMETCO that accepts chrome filter cake for recycling.
JIm Sullivan- Oak Ridge, New Jersey
2004
Q. Thanks for your speedy response Jim, would you happen to know if the company you speak of has an offshoot in the U.K?
Many Thanks,
Stuart Haynes- Manchester, England
2004
A. I think it is very unlikely that you will find a firm that is willing to pay you for your waste or even take it for free. The likelihood that a hydroxide sludge containing chrome, calcium, iron and other trace metals has a real value is remote. I think you're going to find that disposal cost is a function of environmental control by your government. The US is a tough enough place to do business. I really feel sorry for you Europeans because it sounds like it's even tougher there. Must be an easier way to make a living, huh?
Daryl Spindler, CEF
decorative nickel-chrome plating - Greenbrier, Tennessee
2004
A. I must disagree to that statement, in Denmark there are several companies who will pay for Chrome cakes, by the way also for copper, nickel and zinc. Those cakes are exported to smelters located in Germany, but here ends my knowledge because my cakes contains to much iron, to be interesting to those companies. Try to ask your chemical supplier he or she might know.
Bo KönigFood industry - Odense Denmark
2004
Q. I have been looking for the answer to your question for years. but still dispose of chrome sludge to landfill. Please let me know if you have any success.
Steve Kelson- Sandbach, Cheshire, UK
2004
A. Instead of making that cake, why don't you do something with it before it gets to that point. There are many types of technologies that could be of interest to you to recycle the chrome back to the bath, or make a by-product that would have some better use or recyclability. A combination of ion exchange and membranes, for instance, can return a very pure sodium chromate solution to resale, or even be converted to chromic acid and put back into your drag-outs.
Tom Baker
wastewater treatment specialist - Warminster, Pennsylvania
2004
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