Chromate and dichromate are the two oxoanions of chromium. In both, chromium is present in its hexavalent form (Cr(VI)). In aqueous solutions, chromate exists under alkaline and dichromate under acidic conditions. Hexavalent chromium is highly toxic and carcinogenic. It is therefore restricted in manufactured goods as well as in the environment and requires thorough monitoring. DIN 38405-52 describes the determination of Cr(VI) in water, wastewater, and sludge by photometric methods. In Appendix C, chapter C.6 the use of ion chromatography is described. This AN shows the application of the method to drinking water samples.
