Metallic oxides such as Cr2O3 can be reduced by an aluminothermic process. In this process, the metal oxide is mixed with aluminium powder and placed in a fire clay crucible. To initiate the reduction process, an ignition mixture (usually magneisium and barium peroxide) is used.
BaO2 + Mg → BaO + MgO
During the above reaction a large amount of heat is evolved (temperature upto 2400°C, is generated and the reaction enthalpy is – 852 kJ mol ) which facilitates the reduction of Cr2O3 by aluminium power.
Cr2O3 +2 Al 
2Cr + Al2O3
