Recycling & Disposal

Recycling of Solvents

 

Chlorinated solvents are perfectly suited for recycling. Recycling takes place inside modern dry-cleaning and metal cleaning machines where this is an essential part of the cleaning cycle and significantly increases the eco-efficiency of the chlorinated solvents. Used solvent can be externally recycled and re-used, while the residues (dirt, grease etc.) need to be safely collected and disposed of by authorised disposal companies. Certain authorized suppliers offer to take back waste in special safety containers or equivalent closed loop systems.

Transport and take back, and recycling of spent solvents require a permit under local waste legislation. It is important that spent solvents and residues are labelled in accordance with EU CLP Regulation, ADR/RID transport regulations, national waste laws and the correct EU waste codes assigned. Classification & labelling of spent solvents depend on the composition and has to be determined on a case by case basis (ask your waste disposer/recycler for support). 

Drum recycling/disposal

 

Drums with remnant solvent should be disposed of as hazardous waste according to waste regulations or should be sent for reconditioning. It is not recommended to use reconditioned drums for fresh & spent chlorinated solvents.

Empty special safety containers or equivalent containers with closed loop systems will be taken back by the supplier or distributor or approved waste manager. Non-returnable drums have to be empty and free of solvent residues and un-labelled, before they can be sent back to metal recyclers.

Further information  on recycling and disposal of solvents can be found here:

Municipal Waste Europe website

The European Solvent Recyler Group (ESRG) website