Mechanisms of chromium isotope fractionation and the applications in the environment

Chromium (Cr) is a toxic heavy metal that gives rise to environmental pollution and human risk. Chromium stable isotopes have a wide range of applications in both environmental field and earth science field. In this contribution, we focus on the application of the Cr isotope in both tracing pollution sources and monitoring Cr (VI) pollution. Meanwhile, we also provide a description of the main influencing factors controlling Cr isotope fractionation, chromium isotope analytical methods, and terrestrial Cr release. Chromium isotope tracing of contaminant sources is a new application method, it has a tremendous advantage in searching for the source of Cr pollution, which has not been covered in previous reviews. At the end of the article, the current status of Cr isotope applications in the paleo-environment is explained. Although there are still some uncertainties in practical applications, chromium isotope system shows great promise in the environmental aspects.

Automated summary

This article discusses the application of chromium isotopes in tracing pollution sources and monitoring Cr (VI) pollution. It also describes the main influencing factors controlling Cr isotope fractionation, chromium isotope analytical methods, and terrestrial Cr release. Chromium isotope tracing of contaminant sources is a new and advantageous method. Despite some uncertainties in practical applications, chromium isotope system holds great promise in the environmental aspects.