Chromic Acid

Chromic acid has many uses, including:

Metal finishing: Chromic acid is used in chromium plating to create a protective layer on metal surfaces that resists corrosion and scratches. 

Wood preservation: Chromic acid is used to protect wood from bacteria and insects. It's used for marine pilings, telephone poles, and other industrial wood applications. 

Laboratory glassware cleaning: Chromic acid is used to clean laboratory glassware and remove insoluble organic residues. However, its use in this context has been stopped due to environmental concerns. 

Organic synthesis: Chromic acid is used as a strong oxidizing agent in organic synthesis. 

Textile industry: Chromic acid is used as a mordant, which is a chemical agent that helps a reaction occur between the dye and the fabric. 

Photographic reversal processing: Chromic acid is used as a bleach in photographic reversal processing. 

Musical instrument restoration: Chromic acid is used to restore the brightness of brass and guitars. 

Hair dye: Chromic acid was introduced as an ingredient in hair dyes in 1940. 

Chromic acid test: A chromic acid test can detect the presence of alcohols, such as primary and secondary alcohols. When the alcohol is present, the chromic acid changes color from orange to green or blue.