What Is Hexavalent Chromium? Green Substance Found Flowing On Michigan Highway Identified As Carcinogen

The Michigan State police officers confirmed that the green substance that was leaking onto the highway was a highly dangerous carcinogen known to cause cancer. The incident occurred at I-696, outside north of Detroit, Friday afternoon.

The police officers said the chemical was identified as hexavalent chromium, a carcinogen that is known to cause cancer and to affect body parts such as respiratory systems, kidneys, liver, skin, and eyes, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Hazard.

The authorities issued orders to close the road for cleaning up the green gooey material as it had flowed on to the highway and was potentially deadly to people who come in contact with it. The police officers, after investigating the scene determined that the carcinogen was being used by a nearby factory and had leaked onto the highway due to a broken pipe.

Local reports said the green material that had flowed onto the road was liquid at first but then after a while, turned into a green blob of slick and slimy substance. It had frozen in the cold and was reportedly being disposed of with the help of an excavator into a safe box.

Hexavalent chromium is used in electroplating, stainless steel production, leather tanning, textile manufacturing, and wood preservation. The chemical compound is known for its hazardous nature as it can cause headaches, dizziness, blood disorders, and kidney or liver damages on exposure in large quantities.

The police officers said the number one priority at the moment was to contain the dangerous substance from flowing into the drains as several of them open in the lakes nearby. They added that it was important to maintain the water quality of the lakes in the area. Investigations into the incident were underway.