Multiply the number of researchers by the number of material purchases annually and it is apparent that significant savings will occur. Whether chemicals are purchased in milligram or gallon quantities, Hazardous Waste Disposal costs must always be considered. By incorporating bench-scale waste treatment techniques in teaching and research protocols, a significant percentage of laboratory generated hazardous wastes can be eliminated. Several simple methodologies may be employed. Elementary neutralization of acids and caustics is simple and immediate.
Solvents are candidates for re-distillation.
Recovered solvent can either be reused or used for a less critical application if solvent purity is a research criterion. Distillation residues must be handled as hazardous waste. Waste solvent disposal can be curtailed by at least 50 percent. As a rule of thumb, the largest possible container consistent with safety and space requirements, should be used to store hazardous wastes. One 5 gallon plastic carboy takes up less space than five one liter bottles.