Silica Gel, Molecular Sieves and Dessicant Disposal

Used silica gel, molecular sieves and desiccants that are contaminated with solvents or other hazardous chemicals must be disposed as hazardous waste.  Place the material in a bag or container and dispose during the regular hazardous waste pickups.

• Label the drum with the yellow hazardous waste sticker as soon as you begin using it.
• Use only the liner provided with the drum, if any.  Red-colored or Biohazard bags are NOT acceptable.
• Do not fill the drum more than 3/4 of the drum's capacity.
• Bring the 3/4 full drum to the regular hazardous waste pickup.  Since the drum is heavy, it is best to use a dolly or hand truck, which should be available in the receiving room of your building.
• Contact EHS at 258-5294 for replacement drums.

This policy applies to all used adsorbents, grossly contaminated or otherwise.  Used silica gel that appears free flowing and dry still may have chemical contamination significant enough to classify it as hazardous waste according to the US EPA.  Only unused silica gel, molecular sieves or desiccants that have not been in contact with hazardous chemicals may be disposed of in the regular trash within a sealed container.

If you have any questions, please contact James Boehlert at 258-7882.