REACH UK: An Extension for the Continued Use of Chromates in Aerospace and Defence

In October 2024, the aerospace and defence sector was granted a 12-year extension for the use of chromates. This extension balances regulatory compliance with the unique needs of the aerospace and defence sectors, safeguarding the supply chain and maintaining the commitment to the safety and reliability of aircraft and defence equipment.

This is a positive outcome for the continued use of Indestructible Paint’s chromate-containing coatings, such as our Ipcote Range of Sacrificial Coatings and Rockhard Primer, all of which are essential for the safety and durability of airplanes and other critical machinery.

See the list of REACH authorisations and Indestructible Paint’s affected products here.

This renewal allows the continued use of chromates while the development and implementation of alternative solutions progress across the sector and supply chain. For several years, Indestructible Paint has prioritised developing and substituting chromates (Cr VI compounds) with suitable alternatives. However, due to the current status of substitution progress across the industry, the renewal of REACH authorisations beyond the initial expiry dates was crucial.

This decision marks a significant milestone for the Aerospace and Defence Chromate Replacement (ADCR) consortium, which includes numerous members of the Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD) and global partners.

You can get updates on the ADCR consortium here.

You can also see ASD’s response to the authorisation decision here.

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