Chromium is a steely-gray, lustrous, hard and brittle transition metal. It is the main additive in stainless steel, providing it with anti-corrosive properties. Polished chrome metal reflects approximately 70% of visible light and nearly 90% of infrared light. It is named after the Greek word for "color or pigment" because most chromium compounds are intensely colored.
Ferrochromium alloy is commercially produced from chromites by silicothermic or aluminothermic reactions and chromium metal by roasting and leaching processes followed by reduction with carbon and then aluminum. Chromium metal is of high value for its high corrosion resistance and hardness. A major development in steel production was the discovery that steel could be made highly resistant to corrosion and discoloration by adding metallic chromium to form stainless steel. Stainless steel and chrome plating (electroplating with chromium) together comprise 85% of the commercial use.
After adding chromium, it can increase the strength of the steel and have excellent heat resistance. It is used in the manufacture of super alloys (super heat resistant alloys) and plating for aircraft engines and nuclear energy equipment.