Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who should join this platform?
We seek to bring together any interested stakeholder in the hard chrome plating supply chain - industry players, researchers, and technology developers to collaborate, share knowledge, and support the project.
What are the benefits of joining the PPCG?
- Cr-VI used in HCP is a carcinogen and subject to strict regulatory control. Organisations reliant upon HCP can enhance their supply chain resilience by participation in this initiative
- Ensure that your application of HCP and the functions it delivers are understood. This will help inform the COM concerning barriers to the adoption of alternatives
- Collaborative R&D on pre-competitive challenges
- Shared knowledge and reduced duplication of effort
- Potentially reducing research and development time/costs in developing substitutes to Cr-VI in hard chrome plating
What does it cost?
There is no membership fee. Costs are those associated with participating in meetings and workshops and contributing to discussions on substitution approaches for Cr-VI in hard chrome plating, and the development of a roadmap for substitution. Several meetings/workshops are envisaged in 2026, which are anticipated to be online and/or in person.
How is intellectual property (IP) managed?
The substitution centre pilot project provides a secure framework for managing IP, including a draft operating structure, which includes model collaboration agreements and non-disclosure agreements.
Participation does not require you to disclose proprietary information unless you choose to. You control what you share, and all collaborations are governed by clear IP agreements and confidentiality terms.
We have already successfully substituted Cr-VI in hard chrome plating, or expect to do so in the next couple of years. Is there still value in my participation?
Yes, absolutely. Because of the challenge of substitution Cr-VI in hard chrome plating, your successes and challenges you faced will be very valuable for other participants to hear. The platform will also offer you an opportunity to promote and communicate your success.
How to I find out more information or express an interest in joining the PPCG?
Please Contact us if you are interested to join.
Questions for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs)
Why should an SME like ours join this collaboration platform?
Joining allows SMEs to access shared knowledge, and technical resources – potentially reducing the cost and risk of innovation. It opens the door to new markets, customers, and technologies without having to invest heavily in in-house R&D.
What does it cost?
There is no membership fee. Costs are those associated with participating in meetings and workshops and contributing to discussions on substitution approaches for Cr-VI in hard chrome plating, and the development of a roadmap for substitution. Several meetings/workshops are envisaged in 2026, which are anticipated to be online and/or in person.
We have limited R&D capacity. Can we still benefit from joining?
Yes. The platform is designed to include SMEs at all stages of capability. Whether you're just starting to explore alternatives to chromates or already testing new coatings, you can contribute and benefit through collaboration, technical support, or participation.
Will we be expected to share our proprietary technologies or data?
No. Participation does not require you to disclose proprietary information unless you choose to. You control what you share, and all collaborations are governed by clear IP agreements and confidentiality terms. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will form part of the platform.
We are worried about being overshadowed by larger companies. How are SMEs treated?
The platform is built to ensure fair and equal participation from participants throughout the supply chain. This project specifically looks for SME involvement due to their large representation in plating shops, as well as their agility and expertise. We help balance partnerships so that SME voices and contributions are recognized and valued.
Do we need to have a specific project idea to join?
Not at all. You can join to explore ideas, find inspiration, or connect with others already developing solutions. You can respond to existing opportunities or bring your own challenge to the table.
How to I find out more information or express an interest in joining the PPCG?
Please Contact us if you are interested to join.