STL, Inc.

Year Submitted: 2003

Process: Sample extractions using Methylene Chloride

Industry: Laboratory

Wastes Reduced: Solvent

Substance: Methylene Chloride

Equipment: Continuous Liquid Liquid Extractors (CLLE's)

Location: Austin TX

No. of employees: 62

Contact: Neal Salcher

Phone: 512-310-5215

Description:

Environmental problem was the amount of Methylene Chloride being disposed of over the course of one year. Methylene Chloride is used as the extraction solvent for the preparation and analysis of environmental samples in the analytical testing industry as per EPA protocols.

P2 Application:

Previously, environmental samples were extracted using ~ 450ml of Methylene Chloride in traditional "Continuous Liquid Liquid Extractors". Upon modification of the extractors, the laboratory was able to reduce the amount of Methylene Chloride needed by 35%, and still adhere to the EPA guidelines for sample preparation.

Environmental Benefits:

Reduction of Methylene Chloride use of 5.5 tons per year, and the potential to become a small quantity genarator by 2004.

Details of Reductions

Additional Information :

Annual savings for 2002 are estimated at $15,000.

Source: TCEQ