What is Cadmium?

Cadmium is a rare metallic element found in small deposits on almost every continent. It has a number of uses, perhaps most famously as a pigment in paint and in jewellery, and it can be expensive due to its rarity. Pure cadmium is rare in nature. The element is usually found in combinations with other elements, typically copper, zinc, and lead. It is extracted from these ores during the smelting process, or with the assistance of chemicals such as sulfuric acid. When isolated, cadmium is a soft, bluish white metal that is highly ductile, making it extremely suitable for metal alloys.

What are the risks of Cadmium?

Cadmium and its compounds are generally considered to be carcinogenic by most health and safety agencies. The element irritates internal organs such as the lungs and intestines when inhaled or ingested, and long term exposure to high levels can cause death.

Where can Cadmium be found and why is it present?

Soil, rocks, coal and fertilizers contain cadmium. Most of the cadmium used in the United States is removed when other metals such as zinc, lead and copper are processed. Cadmium is used in some nickel-cadmium storage batteries, pigments, metal coatings, dental amalgams and plastics.Cadmium can enter the air from mining, industry, burning coal and household wastes. Cadmium can travel long distances through the air before settling on the ground or water. It enters water and soil from waste disposal, or if spills or leaks occur at hazardous waste sites. It binds to soil. Some forms dissolve in water.Cadmium can be found in paints and hardware of consumer products.

What legislation relates to Cadmium?

Cadmium is restricted under Annex XVII of REACH regulations, which covers mixtures and articles, jewellery, paints, brazing fillers, plastics and recovered PVC. Cadmium is also covered in a number of regulations including, the Consumer Product Safety Commission, California Proposition 65, the Toxics in Packaging Clearinghouse (TPCH), RoHS, CPSIA and European Toy Directive.

What are the limits for Cadmium?

Under REACH the following can not be placed on the market if the Cadmium content exceeds:

- 0.01% for Jewellery, Mixtures and Articles and Brazing Fillers

- 0.1% for Paints and recovered PVC