Chromium-Free Passivation Alternative: a breakthrough for sustainability

 

by Ruaidrí Mac Domhnaill, Regulatory Affairs Manager

 

One of the most transformative advances in tinplate production over the past century is the replacement of hexavalent chromium in the passivation of tinplated steel (ETP) with a fully chrome-free alternative known as Chromium Free Passivation Alternative (CFPA). For decades, hexavalent chromium passivation has been a standard global means of controlling tin oxide growth, which, if unchecked, could impair lacquer adhesion and affect welding. However, its continued use in the EU/EEA is being phased out under the REACH Regulation, which prioritises human health and environmental responsibility.

Rigorous testing across all product categories

CFPA has been in development since 2017 under the umbrella of Steel for Packaging Europe, with collaborative efforts among industry members to produce a material with the equivalent performance of chromium-passivated ETP while advancing a more sustainable production process.

Since 2019, can makers have rigorously tested CFPA in hundreds of packaging applications across all product categories, including food, general line cans, aerosols, and closures with testing also incorporating the latest coating systems for these products.

Beyond performance, CFPA meets food contact regulations for human food in Europe, Mercosur, and China. In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a Food Contact Notification (FCN) for human food and dry infant formula, extending CFPA’s compliance to North America.

CFPA is also now integrated into the updated tinmill product standard, EuroNorm EN 10202:2022. Relevant ASTM standards have incorporated similar updates, and Steel for Packaging Europe is coordinating with the ISO standards committees to include CFPA references in their relevant standard, broadening its global recognition.

The time to act is now

Currently, CFPA stands as the only chromium-free passivation solution for packaging steel that is available from multiple sources and that has been thoroughly validated across all product categories.

Commercially available now, CFPA ensures the continued global availability of high-quality packaging for can makers, marks a major milestone in sustainable materials innovation for the steel packaging industry and aligns with the expected goals of the Clean Industrial Deal. Steel for Packaging Europe continues to advise all supply chain partners to swiftly adopt CFPA to facilitate a seamless transition away from chromium VI passivated material before the end of 2027.

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