Radiolytic formation of non-toxic Cr(III) from toxic Cr(VI) in formate containing aqueous solutions: A system for water treatment

► Cr(VI) is radiolytically reduced to Cr(III) in presence formate. ► Reduction is pH, dose rate dependent. A mechanism is proposed. ► Cr(VI) recovers when all the formate is consumed. ► Irradiation of wastewater can remove Cr(VI).