Compressed Gas Disposal

Compressed Gases

Compressed gases should be returned to the vendor. If there are problems returning a cylinder, contact EHS.

Lecture Bottle Purchase and Disposal

Lecture bottles are very small compressed gas cylinders, typically 2-3 inches in diameter and 12-18 inches in height.  While most gas supplier offer lecture bottles for purchase, many will not accept the empty or partially full cylinders back for disposal.  Lecture bottle disposal can be very costly, depending on the original contents.

Princeton University researchers should only purchase lecture bottles that can be returned to the distributor.  Most distributors, including the most commonly used sources at Princeton, do offer a returnable cylinder, although in some cases, these cylinders are slightly larger than typical lecture bottles.  Also, keep in mind that distributors’ policies toward lecture bottles are subject to change.  In order to avoid costly disposal fees and potential hazards involved in emptying and cutting the cylinder, it is worthwhile to purchase a returnable cylinder, even if it is a bit more than what you need.

The following vendors offer returnable lecture bottles

Air Liquide/Scott Specialty Gases - All lecture bottles are refillable

GTS/Welco (Praxair) - some gases offered in lecture sized bottles are returnable.
 

Disposing of Lecture Bottles