Determination of chromium(III), chromium(VI) and total chromium in chromate and trivalent chromium conversion coatings by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry

► Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry was for the first time applied to determine trace amounts of chromium(III), chromium(VI) and total Chromium. ► The method is highly sensitive and selective. ► It was successfully applied to analyze chromate and trivalent chromium conversion coatings.