Abstract

CHAVEZ PORRAS, Álvaro. Description of chrome toxicity from the tannery industry and possible ways of removing it. Rev. ing. univ. Medellín [online]. 2010, vol.9, n.17, pp.41-49. ISSN 1692-3324.

The various chromium (Cr) compounds represent a major threat to both environment and human beings, due to its harmful effects. Toxicity is shown in kidney, gastrointestinal tract, liver, thyroid glands, and in the marrow; and body elimination speed is very slow. Tannery industries use Cr salts in their processes, generating large amounts of liquid effluents with high content of this metal; which should be removed in order to comply with existing environmental legislation. This study provides a description of techniques such as electrolytic removal or electroplating, ion exchange process; process of precipitation; and biological systems. Each one of them offers a practical and feasible solution in terms of economy, environment, and continuous improvement of processes, which allows thinking of a sustainable and responsible production.

Keywords : tannery; removal technologies; environmental pollution; heavy metals.

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