Reactor loading and unloading are also opportunities to minimize waste. During reactor loading, add solids before liquids. This will minimize the amount of time that a most likely volatile liquid is in contact with the atmosphere. If possible, use a solvent with a lower vapor pressure to minimize evaporation losses. Consider using a hopper specific to your solids.
Some hoppers allow locking of the process vessel to minimize vapor losses.
During batch reactor operations, consider using a vapor recycling system if necessary. The cumulative effects can be well worth the investment. Install gaskets on all vessel openings. When discharging the reactor, try to allow the reactor to cool as much as possible to limit volatile organic compounds from leaking. Process Modifications Raw Materials Feed quality is very important in waste minimization.