It is not impossible to be of the belief that chrome and chromium are one and the same. Of course, the words sound quite similar, and perhaps for this reason, these two words are sometimes used interchangeably. However, there is actually quite a big difference between the two materials. Let’s have a little look at the properties of each of these materials and how they differ.
Chromium
Chromium in itself is an element – in fact, it’s element 24 on the periodic table according to the Royal Society of Chemistry. It’s a transition metal, which is both very hard and durable, and resistant to corrosion.
Chrome
Chrome, on the other hand, is actually a layer of chromium which is electroplated over another metal. It can be created from hexavalent chromium, or from trivalent chromium – the latter is more common. Often, chrome contains chromium oxide, which protects the metal underneath from corrosion.
Uses of Chrome
Chrome has a wide variety of uses, but it is perhaps most well known for creating the decorative trim on vehicles, including cars and motorbikes.
It’s often used for this purpose because of the fact that it is so hard and durable – as well as the fact that it gives a shiny, smart finish which looks great on a wide variety of vehicles. Specialists in chrome plating, such as www.poeton.co.uk/advanced-treatments/apticote-100-hard-chrome-plating/, are able to advise on its many benefits and uses.
Chrome is also used around the house as well, for example on kitchen and bathroom fittings.