Anonymous

Year Submitted: 2005

Process: Medical Testing

Industry: Laboratory

Wastes Reduced: Ethanol, Xylene, and Formalin

TX

Description:

The histopathology laboratory is the largest solvent-generating lab on campus, with 20 employees. Ethanol, xylene, and formaldehyde are used in working with tissue strains and clinical samples. In 1997, this lab released tons of non-halogenated waste to the waste stream.

P2 Application:

The histopathology lab began recycling ethanol, xylene, and formaldehyde in 1998 via distillation, which has significantly reduced the volume of non-halogen waste.

Environmental Benefits:

The distillation and reuse of ethanol, xylene, and formaldehyde reduce 3 tons of waste in one year, from 16 tons in 1997 to 13 tons in 1998; a 19% reduction in non-halogenated waste.

Details of Reductions

Additional Information :

Through eliminating 3 tons of waste, the university was able to save $96,255 in purchasing costs of ethanol, xylene and formalin (combined) and $7,280 in disposal costs. A total savings of $ 103,535.

Source: TCEQ