Difference between revisions of "Proper disposal of chemicals"

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(Chemical disposal table)
(Chemical disposal table)
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| style="text-align:center;"| DO NOT DUMP
 
| style="text-align:center;"| DO NOT DUMP
 
| style="text-align:center;"| Extremely toxic for all organisms
 
| style="text-align:center;"| Extremely toxic for all organisms
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| style="text-align:center;"| [[Phosphine]]
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| style="text-align:center;"| Oxygen; ozone; hydrogen peroxide; bleach
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| style="text-align:center;"| May ignite in the presence of air
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| style="text-align:center;"| DO NOT DUMP
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| style="text-align:center;"| DO NOT DUMP
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| style="text-align:center;"| Extremely toxic for all organisms, used to kill pests
 
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| style="text-align:center;"| [[Phosphoric acid]]
 
| style="text-align:center;"| [[Phosphoric acid]]

Revision as of 18:14, 14 February 2016

Most chemicals used by the amateur chemist come from every day use and do not require special treatment before being discarded in the usual way. However there are many chemicals, such as heavy metal compounds or organic solvents, that require special disposal techniques. In the interest of keeping lab costs low, though, it may be a good idea to look into ways to recycle and recover chemicals such as solvents, which can be reclaimed by distillation.

Standard procedures

Acids

Acids should be neutralized with a base, such as carbonate/bicarbonate, hydroxide (calcium hydroxide e.g.) usually as a solution. The soluble salts of halogen acids and oxoacids (except perchloric and chloric acids) can be safely poured down the drain. Special acids and their salts, such as hydrazoic acid and azides must not be poured directly down the drain, they must be treated with nitrous acid to destroy them.

Oxidizing mixtures, such as Aqua regia, piranha solution or mixed acid must also never be poured down the drain, as they're much more dangerous than simple acids, and can wreak havoc on your plumbing. Instead, they must be neutralized first.

Bases

Alkali hydroxides can be left in open air to absorb carbon dioxide as well as corrosive and unpleasant gases, forming carbonates and salts. For quicker results, alkali bases can be neutralized with any acid, though for practical and economical purposes, acetic acid or citric acid are sufficient. Bases may be reused to absorb acidic vapors in a desiccator, which mitigates their dangers. Care must be taken to avoid excess heating with strong bases.

Cyanides

Waste containing cyanide, either from gold refining or from organic extractions of alkaloids from cyanide containing plants, must be neutralized with bleach or hydrogen peroxide, to turn them into less harmful cyanates. Cyanates can be further neutralized to nitrogen and carbon dioxide.

Cyanides must never be poured down the drain.

Heavy metals

Since the biggest hazard comes from the volatile and soluble heavy metal compounds, it's best to convert them into insoluble compounds, which are less toxic.

Heavy metals, such as mercury, can often be neutralized with sulfur, generating mercury(II) sulfide, which is generally insoluble in water and has little reactivity.

Very dangerous heavy metals such as cadmium and arsenic should always be properly disposed of at designated facilities, as their effects on human life and the environment is sometimes catastrophic.

Inorganic anions

Inorganic anions, based on halogens, sulfur, phosphorus, nitrogen, carbon and silicon can be flushed down the drain with lots of water. Examples of these are sulfide, sulfate, chloride, chlorate, nitrate, nitrite, thiocyanate.[1]

Metal ions

A good rule of thumb for transition metals is to convert solutions of their ions to the insoluble carbonate or oxide, often one of the most stable and nontoxic forms of these elements, prior to disposal. Another simple solution is to reduce the ions back to the metal.

Copper salts are dangerous to the environment and should be reduced with iron to elemental copper, that can be reused, and the iron salts produced are less toxic.

Nickel-containing compounds, especially organonickel compounds, are carcinogens, and are also dangerous to many other forms of life. It is a good idea to take these to a proper waste disposal facility.

Cobalt salts may be carcinogenic and should be taken to a proper waste disposal facility.

Aluminium compounds should not be disposed in the sewage. They can, however, be converted to aluminium sulfate, which is safe to dispose of in soil, though it will cause a decrease in pH(it is used as a fertilizer for this purpose). It is a good idea to dispose of aluminium sulfate and a safe basic compound (such as calcium carbonate) at the same time.

Many compounds of chromium, especially chromium(VI), are poisonous and carcinogenic. These should be converted to the +3 oxidation state; hydrogen peroxide as well as sulfites or thiosulfate will do this, which is typically the least harmful, preferably to chromium(III) oxide. Chromium dioxide may be another feasible option, as it is found in cassette tapes and can be recycled with them.

Zinc compounds can be refined to zinc metal using electrowinning. It's not recommended to use zinc compounds as zinc supplemements for soil or livestock, as it may contain traces of cadmium.

Some MSDS sheets recommend that rare earths be converted to their oxalates or carbonates and disposed of in the trash.

Alkali metals are minimally toxic as their salts and may be dumped down the drain.

Organic compounds

Organic solvents should be dumped in labeled waste tanks, such as: halogenated, non-halogenated solvents. Flammable organic solvents that safe in low exposures such as ethanol, methanol, and acetone can often simply be burned outside for disposal, as most often their combustion products are simply carbon dioxide and water. It may be a better idea just to recover them by distillation, though.

A good way to destroy halogentated and aromatic compounds is with Fenton's reagent, which breaks them down to simpler non-toxic compounds. It's best however, to avoid dumping large quantities of waste, as the reaction in exothermic and may splash or volatilize some of the waste, so it's best to perform the neutralization in small steps.

Organic salts, such as acetates and oxalates can be pyrolyzed to carbonates and water vapors.

Recycling

Main article: Reagent recycling

Sometimes it is an option to purify waste products into chemicals that are pure enough to be used again. While this can sometimes be time consuming, it can often be more environmentally and economically friendly than discarding the waste in one manner or another is. Before discarding waste, think about what all it contains, and if there is some way that it could be used.

Down the drain vs. into the soil

The availability of these disposal methods varies depending on where you live. If you live in an apartment block, you only have the drain. If you live in a suburban house, you have both. If you live in some quaint rustic shithole like the author of this edit, you only have the "into the soil" option.

Generally, the soil option is safer, because there is no plumbing you should worry about, but some chemicals shouldn't be released into the soil, either. In general, your designated place for pouring chemicals into the soil should be far from any gardens, horticulture or any other agricultural objects. But chemicals marked as "Oh yes!" in the table are harmless and even useful in agriculture as fertilizers. These you can pour down in your garden.

Lists of various chemical compounds that can be safely released in the ground or down the drain can be found here, here or here.

Other

Heavy metal salts or solutions can be mixed with cement, and trapped in the resulted concrete block. The resulting block can also be covered in another layer of cement, to reduce the diffusion of the heavy metals. Unless the resulting concrete is damaged, broken and dissolved in acid, the heavy metal ions will not be released. However, this merely is a method to prevent the heavy metals from being released in the environment, and is not a permanent way of disposal.

Chemical disposal table

Substance Neutralization Heat treatment Down the drain Into the soil Environmental considerations
1,2-Dichloroethane Oxidation with Fenton's reagent; Concentrated solution of sodium hydroxide Flammable, releases corrosive fumes DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife
1,4-Dioxane Incineration; Oxidation with Fenton's reagent; Chlorination in water with chlorine or hypochlorous acid Incineration produces carbon dioxide and water vapor DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Although small amounts can be diluted with large amounts of water and poured down the drain, 1,4-dioxane does not undergo significant biodegradation and most will end up in the environment.[2]
2-nitrotoluene Oxidation with Fenton's reagent Generates oxidation products and lots of soot DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to all wildlife
2,2,4-Trimethylpentane Incineration Generates carbon oxides, water vapor and soot DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife and dangerous for water bodies as it floats
2,4-Dinitrobromobenzene Oxidation with Fenton's reagent Generates carbon oxides, water vapor, soot and bromine vapors DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to all wildlife
Acetaldehyde Incineration; Sodium pyrosulfite; L-cysteine Generates carbon oxides and water vapors; some will evaporate when heated DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to the wildlife
Acetic acid Bicarbonates, carbonates, bases, oxides Flammable (high concentrations), no dangerous combustion products Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable; avoid dumping large amounts, acidifies soil
Acetic anhydride Bicarbonates, carbonates, bases, oxides Flammable, no dangerous combustion products Yes Yes Biodegradable; avoid dumping large amounts, acidifies soil
Acetone Oxidation/incineration, reducing, photolysis Flammable, no dangerous combustion products Not advised Yes Biodegradable, though not advised for large amounts
Acetone peroxide Photolysis, detonation in safe area Explosive, not recommended Not advised Not advised Biodegradable, though not advised
Acetonitrile Fenton's reagent; Aqueous solution of excess sodium hydroxide[3] All treatments give some hydrogen cyanide fumes DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to all life due to its cyanide/nitrile group; does not quickly break down in environment
Acetylene Oxidation, photolysis Dangerously flammable Not possible Not possible Safe, biodegradable
Acetylsalicylic acid Any base Not particularly helpful Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable
Alpha-pinene Not required Generates smoke, carbon dioxide and water vapor Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable; Occurs naturally
Aluminium chloride Treatment with water, precipitation with a base No effect; Water solutions however will give off hydrogen chloride vapors Not advised Yes Lowers the soil pH, corrosive
Aluminium nitrate Pyrolysis; Aqueous ammonia or alkaline hydroxide solution Gives off nitrogen oxide fumes DO NOT DUMP Not recommended Lowers soil pH, corrosive
Aluminium sulfate Any alkaline hydroxide Releases sulfur oxides at high temperature Dilute it first; neutralization with a base first is recommended No Increases the aluminium concentration in soil and water, lowers pH
Aluminium sulfide Hydrogen peroxide, bleach No NO NO Releases hydrogen sulfide on contact with water, which is toxic to organisms
Ammonia Oxidation, neutralization with acids At high concentrations may generate nitrogen oxides Not possible (gaseous), safe to pour (as solution) Not possible (gaseous), safe to pour (as solution); Good nitrogen source for plants Biodegradable
Ammonium acetate Unnecessary Releases acetonitrile fumes Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable
Ammonium bicarbonate Pyrolysis, hydroxides, acids Decomposes on heating releasing carbon dioxide, ammonia fumes and water vapors Yes Oh yes! Safe, good fertilizer (nitrogen source)
Ammonium chloride Soluble sulfate salts, base + other acid Decomposes on heating releasing ammonia and hydrogen chloride Yes Yes Safe, good fertilizer (nitrogen source); May prove unsuitable to chloride sensitive plants
Ammonium nitrate Pyrolysis, hydroxides, carbonates Emits nitrous oxide, may explode if the temperature is too high Yes Oh yes! Safe, good fertilizer (nitrogen source); May cause algal bloom in water bodies however
Aniline Oxidation with Fenton's reagent Gives off carbon oxides, soot, nitrogen and or nitrogen oxides and water vapor DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to most wildlife
Anthocyanin Not necessary Gives off carbon oxides and water vapor Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable; Occurs naturally
Asbestos Pyrolysis; Oxalic acid and ultrasounds[4] At temperatures over 1000 °C it turns into harmless silicate glass DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to animals via inhalation
Ascorbic acid Unnecessary Releases carbon oxides and water vapor Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable; Occurs naturally
Barium carbonate Sulfuric acid; Resulting BaSO4 can be dumped in trash At very high temperatures decomposed to barium oxide and releases carbon dioxide Not advised Not advised May react with acid rain to release soluble barium ions; Occurs naturally
Barium chlorate Reduction with a reducing agent, such as sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, sodium sulfite Disproportionates into perchlorate and chloride when alone; Burns when mixed with a flammable material No No Toxic for environment
Barium ferrate Sulfuric acid Breaks down to barium and iron oxides, which require further disposal No No Dangerous to wildlife in short term (oxidizer); Releases toxic barium ions in environment
Barium manganate Sulfuric acid Breaks down into barium and manganese oxides Not advised No Toxic to wildlife in short term (oxidizer); Will release toxic barium ions in the environment
Barium nitrate Sodium sulfate, potassium magnesium sulfate, sulfuric acid Breaks down into barium oxide, releasing nitrogen dioxide and oxygen DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife, due to the soluble barium ions
Basic lead chromate May be converted to lead(II) carbonate; should be taken to disposal centers Not useful DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to environment due to lead and Cr(VI) content
Benzene Oxidation with Fenton's reagent; Incineration with afterburner incinerators Generates dangerous combustion products DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Avoid releasing in environment
Benzocaine Oxidation with Fenton's reagent; incineration; down the drain Generates soot and various VOCs and PAHs Yes Not in large quantities Avoid releasing in environment, effects unknown
Bis(ethylenediamine)copper(II) perchlorate Crystallize and ignite safely Detonates DO NOT DUMP No Copper kills aquatic life and plant roots
Bismuth trioxide Reduced to bismuth metal Will oxidize anything (yes, platinum too) when molten DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP May become hazardous for the environment in large quantities
Biuret Not always required Gives off combustion gasses Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable
Biuret reagent Neutralization with an acid Gives off combustion gasses Debatable No Copper and sodium ions pose toxicity to plants and animals
Black powder Controlled incineration Will burn to release a thick cloud of carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide in open air; will detonate in a sealed container Not recommended Yes Its components are already used as fertilizers and the environmental effect are similar
Borax Not required Dehydrates In small quantities In small quantities Dangerous to small animals
Boric acid Not required Will dehydrate it to boron trioxide In small quantities In small quantities Dangerous to small animals
Boron trioxide Not required Not useful; may volatilize at high temperatures In small quantities In small quantities Dangerous to small animals
Butane Incineration Will burn to release carbon dioxide and water vapors Not possible Yes (heavier than air) May induce greenhouse effect
Butanol Incineration Will burn to release carbon dioxide and water vapors Not recommended Not recommended Poses toxicity to wildlife, water bodies
Butyl acetate Incineration Will burn to release carbon dioxide and water vapors Not recommended Not recommended Poses toxicity to wildlife, water bodies
Caesium hydroxide Neutralization with any acid, carbon dioxide Not useful; highly corrosive when hot to glass, most common metals Yes, though best to recycle it Yes Dangerous to wildlife in short term (highly corrosive); Caesium ions have similar toxicity to those of sodium and potassium
Calcium acetate Pyrolysis; Not always required Decomposes to calcium carbonate and acetone at high temperature, which burns in an oxygen-rich atmosphere Yes Yes Biodegradable
Calcium carbide Lots of water; low chain alcohols Not useful DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Dangerous to wildlife in short term (reacts with water); may also release phosphine gas if carbide sample is impure
Calcium carbonate Any acid; not always required Not useful; breaks down into calcium oxide and carbon dioxide at high temperatures Yes, as powder Yes Safe, biodegradable; occurs naturally
Calcium chloride Not required; Any soluble carbonate Not useful; May release some HCl fumes if wet Yes Yes Chloride ions may be harmful to certain plants
Calcium fluoride Not required Unnecessary Not useful Yes Safe to environment, occurs naturally
Calcium gluconate Not required Will result in calcium carbonate and give off carbon dioxide and water vapors at high temperatures Yes Yes Not dangerous to wildlife
Calcium hydroxide Any acid Will dehydrate to calcium oxide at high temperatures Yes No Will "burn" grassland on contact
Calcium hypochlorite Sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, sodium sulfite Disproportionates into chlorate and chloride; will release chlorine and chlorine dioxide fumes Yes DO NOT DUMP Toxic to all wildlife
Calcium nitrate Not required; soluble carbonate or sulfate solution can be used if necessary Not useful Yes OH YES Good source of nitrogen for plants (fertilizer); May cause algal bloom in water bodies
Calcium oxide Plenty of cold water, carbon dioxide, sodium/potassium bicarbonate No Do not dump Do not dump Burns grass on contact
Calcium perchlorate Mixing it with a combustible material, like sugar and incineration Will decompose at high temperatures to release oxygen Do not dump Do not dump Toxic to plants
Calcium sulfate Not required; soluble carbonate solution can be used if gypsum is not desired as waste product Becomes anhydrous at high temperatures (drierite); decomposes to calcium oxide at very high temperatures Yes, with lots and lots of water Yes Anhydrous or hemihydrate form may burn grass on contact
Carbon dioxide Not required; Alkali hydroxides Not necessary Not possible (gaseous form), safe to pour (water solution) Not possible (gaseous form), safe to pour (water solution) Contributes to global warming
Carbon disulfide Incineration, followed by scrubbing of sulfur dioxide (optional) Burns in presence of oxygen, releasing carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife
Carbon monoxide Oxidation with ozone; adsorbtion on activated charcoal; absorbtion in a solution of cuprous chloride in hydrochloric acid or cuprous chloride in ammonia[5][6] Not useful; burns in the presence of oxygen and hydrogen Not possible Not possible Toxic to animals
Carbon tetrachloride Sodium hydroxide excess; oxidation with Fenton's reagent Results in phosgene in the presence of air DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Extremely toxic to wildlife, sinks at the bottom of water bodies
Carbonic acid Any base Releases carbon dioxide fumes Yes Yes Toxic to aquatic life in large quantities
Cellulose Any disposal method Burns in air; decomposes to release carbon oxides, water vapors Not recommended, may clog the plumbing Yes, but avoid water bodies; bury it in ground instead Safe, biodegradable; avoid dumping large amounts, as it poses choking hazard to most animals
Charcoal Burning, dumping in ground Results in carbon dioxide and ash DO NOT DUMP OH YES! Unless it adsorbed dangerous volatile compounds or heavy metals, it can be used as a fertilizer
Chevreul's salt Oxidation with hydrogen peroxide to sulfate, followed by precipitation or reduction of copper ions to metal or hydroxide/oxide Gives off water vapors when heated and sulfur oxides at very high temperatures Not recommended Not recommended Little is known about its environmental effect; it is used as a fungicide and molluscicide[7]
Chloric acid Reducing with sodium sulfite, metabisulfite, bisulfite Breaks down to perchloric acid and chlorine oxides DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Strong oxidizing, toxic and corrosive to all wildlife and everything organic
Chloroauric acid Reduction with a reducing agent, such as ascorbic acid, metabisulfite, sulfur dioxide Gives off hydrogen chloride gases and leaves gold powder behind DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Dangerous to wildlife; Best to try to recycle it
Chlorobutanol Reducing with alkali hydroxide or magnesium, followed by incineration Gives off hydrogen chloride fumes during burning/pyrolysis Not recommended Not recommended Toxic to wildlife
Chloroform Destruction with aqueous sodium hydroxide, which can be aided by methanol or acetone; Oxidation with Fenton's reagent Boils to form vapor, should not be attempted indoors DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP May cause ozone depletion, dangerous to aquatic life
Chromium(III) oxide Not required; can be dumped in the trash Not useful Do not dump Not recommended Low reactivity, low danger for environment
Chromium(III) sulfate Precipitation with a soluble hydroxide, followed by calcination to chromium(III) oxide Not useful Do not dump Do not dump Dangerous to wildlife in large amounts
Citric acid Any base, carbonate, bicarbonate, alkaline-earth oxide Gives off carbon dioxide and water vapors Yes Yes In wet environment it acts as fungi growth environment
Cobalt(II) chloride Any soluble hydroxide, carbonate May give off hydrogen chloride fumes in the presence of water DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife; classified as "Substance of very high concern" in the EU
Cobalt (III) oxide Not required Not useful Do not dump Do not dump Cobalt is necessary for vitamin B12 production
Copper(I) chloride Oxidizing with air/oxygen or H2O2 to the more soluble CuCl2, followed by reduction to metallic copper with iron or zinc. May hydrolyze in the presence of water and air to give off hydrogen chloride fumes DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Oxidizes to copper(II) chloride in the presence of air, which is toxic and corrosive in water
Copper(II) acetylsalicylate Pyrolysis, incineration, oxidation with Fenton's reagent Gives off carbon oxides and water vapors, as well as soot and VOCs Not recommended Not recommended Unknown effects in the environment; presence of copper ions however is generally considered harmful
Copper(II) carbonate Not required; can be neutralized with an acid and reduced to metallic copper Will give off carbon dioxide fumes and leave CuO residues Do not dump DO NOT DUMP Copper ions are considered harmful to the environment
Copper(II) chloride Precipitate as carbonate or reduce to copper metal using aluminium, iron or zinc Loses water and hydrogen chloride, turns brown DO NOT DUMP Yes, but far from any agricultural plants Kills aquatic life and plant roots
Copper(II) hydroxide Reduction to metallic copper Loses water, yielding CuO Do not dump Only as agricultural product Copper ions are considered harmful to most wildlife
Copper(II) nitrate Any alkali or ammonium hydroxide, carbonate Gives off nitrogen oxide and nitric acid fumes, leaving copper oxides/hydroxides slag DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Copper ions may be harmful to wildlife; the nitrate group is a nitrogen source for plants
Copper(II) oxide Dissolving it in an acid, followed by reduction to metallic copper Not useful DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Generally considered harmful to wildlife
Copper oxychloride Reduction with a iron or zinc to metallic copper Gives off HCl fumes and leaves behind CuO slag DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Generally toxic to wildlife
Copper(II) phosphate Not always required May decompose to copper oxide and phosphorus oxides at high temperatures, or elemental phosphorus in the presence of a reducing agent Not recommended Not recommended Due to low solubility, it has lower toxicity than other copper compounds
Copper(II) sulfate Reduction with aluminium, iron or zinc to metallic copper Loses water when heated, releases sulfur trioxide at high temperatures, leaving behind CuO Not recommended Only as agricultural product Shows toxicity to pests, wildlife
Copper chromite Not always required; can be dumped in trash Not useful Not recommended Not recommended Unknown environmental effects
Curcumin Not required Releases carbon oxides and water vapors, as well as soot Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable; occurs naturally
Cyclohexane Incineration; oxidation with Fenton's reagent Flammable, burns in the presence of oxygen to release carbon oxides, water vapors, soot and VOCs DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife
Dextrin Any disposal method Decomposes to release carbon oxides, water vapors Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable
Dichloromethane Destruction with aqueous sodium hydroxide, iron can also be used; Oxidation with Fenton's reagent Boils to form vapor; pyrolysis at high temperatures yielding chlorine, hydrochloric acid and carbon monoxide DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP May cause ozone depletion, dangerous to aquatic life
Diethyl ether Incineration (no peroxides); Adding excess ferrous sulfate, sodium bisulfite or metabisulfite to neutralize the peroxides, followed by incineration; If the bottle has peroxides on the cap, do not open it, instead safely detonate it in a remote or special area Extremely flammable, burns to release carbon dioxide and water vapors DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Dangerous to animals
Diisopropyl ether Incineration (no peroxides); Adding excess ferrous sulfate, sodium bisulfite or metabisulfite to neutralize the peroxides, followed by incineration; If the bottle has peroxides on the cap, do not open it, instead safely detonate it in a remote or special area Extremely flammable, burns to release carbon dioxide and water vapors DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Dangerous to animals
Dimethyl sulfoxide Mixed with a more flammable solvent, followed by incineration; Oxidation with Fenton's reagent if it has too much water Results in carbon oxides, water vapors and sulfur dioxide DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Waste water bacteria breaks it down into dimethyl sulfide, which is slightly toxic and has a strong disagreeable odor
Dimethylformamide Oxidation with Fenton's reagent Gives off toxic fumes DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife
Dipicolinic acid Mixed with a more flammable solvent and followed by incineration Gives off carbon oxides, water vapors and soot Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable; occurs naturally
Disulfur dichloride Slaked lime or any other base, carbonate or bicarbonate Boils off DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Extremely toxic and corrosive
Erythritol Not required Yields carbon oxides, water vapor Yes Yes Low toxicity
Ethane Incineration Flammable, gives off carbon dioxide and water vapors Not possible Not possible Contributes to greenhouse effect
Ethanol Not always required; Incineration Yields carbon oxides, water vapor Yes Not recommended Deadly to small animals on direct contact, dangerous to aquatic and soil life
Ethyl acetate Sodium hydroxide; Incineration Combustion in the presence of air Do not dump Do not dump Toxic to aquatic life
Ethylene glycol Incineration Gives off carbon oxides, water vapors and various volatile componds Not recommended DO NOT DUMP Toxic to organisms, dangerous to aquatic life
Ethylene glycol dinitrate Sodium hydroxide, followed by incineration Detonation DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Poses threat to animals, weak nitrogen source for plants
Ethylenediamine Neutralization with sulfuric acid; mixed with a flammable solvent, followed by an incineration; oxidation with potassium permanganate, followed by addition of sodium bisulfite, and neutralization with sodium hydroxide Burns in air to release carbon dioxide, water vapor and nitrogen DO NOT DUMP Not recommended Dangerous to aquatic life
Fehling's solution Precipitate copper with hydroxide/phosphate, recycle or safely dispose of; tatrate can be disposed of in any method Decomposes, releases combustion gasses, leaves behind copper, sodium and potassium carbonate slag Yes Yes, but not in large quantities Too much copper is dangerous for animals
Fluorescein Not always required, any method will do Decomposes, releases combustion gasses, POCs and VOCs Yes Yes Unknown effects
Formaldehyde Sodium hydroxide Boils off DO NOT DUMP Yes, but only in some places, like farm land Toxic to small animals, carcinogenic
Formic acid Sodium hydroxide Gives off carbon monoxide and water vapors DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Deadly to insects and aquatic life; reason why it's used to kill varroa
Fructose Not required Will decompose to caramel Yes Yes Non-toxic to environment, nourishment for many organisms
Furfural‎ Incineration Gives off carbon oxides and water vapor Debatable Debatable Low toxicity to wildlife
Gasoline Incineration Burning gives combustion gasses as well as soot, carbon monoxide and various VOCs DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife; very dangerous for aquatic life
Glycerol Not required; Incineration Pyrolysis gives acrolein Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable
Haematoxylin Not required Gives off carbon oxides, water vapor and soot Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable; occurs naturally
Hematein Not required Gives off carbon oxides, water vapor and soot Yes Yes Safe
Heptane Incineration; Oxidation with Fenton's reagent Gives off carbon dioxide and water vapors DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to aquatic life and organisms
Hexamethylene triperoxide diamine Adding a mixture of zinc sulfate, copper(II) chloride with Zn and Cu powder in a 5:5:1 ratio to the peroxide solution, in the presence of small amounts of sulfuric acid Do not use heat, as it will lead to detonation DO NOT DUMP Debatable Slowly breaks down to harmless products
Hexamine Incineration Burning in air yields carbon oxides, water vapor, nitrogen; Pyrolysis yields formaldehyde, carbon oxides, ammonia and nitrogen fumes, HCN (t > 800°C) Yes Yes Nitrogen source for plants
Hexane Incineration; Oxidation with Fenton's reagent Results in carbon dioxide and water vapor DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to aquatic life
Holmium citrate Recycling Gives off carbon dioxide and water vapors, leaving holmium(III) oxide behind Not recommended Not recommended Low toxicity to wildlife
Hydrazine Diluted solution of calcium hypochlorite Gives off toxic fumes; may lead to detonation if temperature is too high DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to all life
Hydrazine sulfate Diluted solution of calcium hypochlorite Gives off toxic fumes; may lead to detonation if temperature s too high DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to all life
Hydrazoic acid Sodium nitrite or nitrous acid Will lead to detonation for concentrated solutions DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Dangerous to all life
Hydrobromic acid Any base, carbonate, bicarbonate; sodium thiosulfate can also be used Boils off the acid, resulting in extremely toxic and corrosive fumes; will lead to decomposition to elemental bromine NO! Neutralize first NO! Neutralize first Toxic and very corrosive
Hydrochloric acid Any alkali or alkaline-earth carbonate, bicarbonate DON'T! Results in acidic vapors, extremely dangerous and corrosive NO! Neutralize first NO! Toxic to wildlife and corrosive to minerals
Hydrofluoric acid Calcium hydroxide, carbonate DON'T! Results in acidic fumes, which on contact with skin will lead to burns and death DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Calcium fluoride is more inert than most fluorides and poses little toxicity to wildlife; occurs naturally
Hydrogen chloride Any base, carbonate, bicarbonate; for gaseous form, ammonia can be used, though will result in a dense ammonium chloride mist NO DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Corrosive for rocks, toxic for all wildlife
Hydrogen iodide Any base, carbonate, bicarbonate; for gaseous form, ammonia can be used, though will result in a dense mist; sodium thiosulfate can also be used DON'T! Will lead to extremely dangerous and corrosive fumes, which will decompose, resulting iodine vapors NO! Neutralize first NO! Neutralize first Corrosive to organisms and rocks; Iodides have little toxicity to wildlife
Hydrogen peroxide Manganese dioxide, iron(III) oxide Diluted solutions will break down harmlessly; Very concentrated solutions may explode if contaminated Not if concentrated solutions DO NOT DUMP Deadly for microbial life, extremely toxic for small animals and aquatic life
Hydrogen sulfide Hydrogen peroxide; sulfur dioxide Not useful DO NOT DUMP Not recommended Very toxic for animals at high concentrations; Occurs naturally, but at low concentrations
Hydroiodic acid Any alkali or alkaline-earth carbonate, bicarbonate DON'T! Will lead to extremely dangerous and corrosive fumes, which will decompose, resulting iodine vapors NO! Neutralize first NO! Neutralize first Corrosive to organisms and rocks; Iodides have little toxicity to wildlife
Iron(II) sulfate Not always required; Ammonium hydroxide, carbonate/bicarbonate Breaks down to iron(III) oxide and gives off sulfur dioxide and trioxide fumes Yes Yes Safe, used in agriculture as iron supplement; May cause algal bloom if released in water bodies
Iron(II,III) oxide Not required Results in iron(III) oxide in the presence of air Yes, but not advised Yes Safe, occurs naturally
Iron(III) chloride Calcium hydroxide (slaked lime) Gives off hydrogen chloride fumes DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Extremely toxic to wildlife
Iron(III) oxide Not required Not useful Yes, but not advised Yes Safe, sometimes used in agriculture as iron supplement; May cause algal bloom if released in water bodies
Iron(III) sulfate Calcium hydroxide (slaked lime) Breaks down into iron(III) oxide and gives off sulfur oxides DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Corrosive, toxic to aquatic life
Isobutanol Incineration Flammable, gives off carbon dioxide and water vapor DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Dangerous for wildlife and aquatic life
Isopropanol Incineration Flammable, gives off carbon dioxide and water vapor DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Dangerous for wildlife and aquatic life
Isopropyl nitrite Neutralization with sodium hydroxide, followed by incineration Detonation DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife and aquatic life
Isopropylamine Neutralization with any acid; incineration; oxidation with Fenton's reagent Flammable, burns to release carbon dioxide, water vapors and nitrogen; nitrogen dioxide may also be released DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to all wildlife and especially aquatic life
KS Fluid Immersion underwater to prevent self-ignition, followed by adding a flocculating or a thickening agent to trap the phosphorus inside; resulting mass should be incinerated in a special incinerator Pyrophoric, releases toxic sulfur dioxide and phosphorus pentoxide fumes DO NOT DUMP! DO NOT DUMP! Pyrophoric, toxic and corrosive to the environment
Lead(II) acetate Alkali carbonate or hydroxide; Lead precipitate should be taken to disposal facilities Results in lead oxides; Yields carbon oxides, water vapors DO NOT DUMP! DO NOT DUMP! Extremely toxic to all life, due to the good solubility of lead acetate
Lead(II) chromate Taken to hazardous waste disposal centers Breaks down to its component oxides at high temperatures DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Extremely toxic to the environment
Lead(II) nitrate Precipitation with a sulfide, carbonate or oxalate; wastes are to be taken to hazardous waste disposal centers Breaks down in to lead oxide and releases nitrogen dioxide fumes DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Extremely toxic to wildlife due to its good solubility in water
Lead(II) oxide Taken to hazardous waste disposal centers Not useful DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Extremely toxic to wildlife
Lead(II,IV) oxide Taken to hazardous waste disposal centers Not effective DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Extremely toxic to wildlife
Lead(IV) acetate Precipitate with an excess of carbonate, oxalate or a sulfide; waste is to be taken to hazardous waste disposal centers Results in lead oxide and acetic acid, carbon dioxide, water vapor DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Corrosive and very toxic to all organisms
Limonene Incineration; oxidation; not always required Results in carbon dioxide, water vapor, soot Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable; occurs naturally
Lithium aluminium hydride Neutralization with an alkali or carbonate solution; recycling of lithium ions Decomposes to release hydrogen DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Corrosive to organisms, will increase the aluminium concentration in soil or water
Lithium chloride Not required Hydrated form will give some oxychloride salt Yes Yes Increases the chloride concentration in soil as well as lithium
Lithium hydroxide Any acid, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide; recycling is a good choice Breaks down to lithium oxide and water vapor Yes Neutralize first Lithium has little effect to plant life, but will affect the nervous system of animals when ingested in excess
Magnesium chloride Not required Hydrated form gives the oxychloride salt Yes Yes May increase the magnesium and chloride content in the soil significantly
Magnesium hydroxide Not always required; any acid can be used, though a weak one is more economical Decomposes at 350 °C to magnesium oxide and releases water vapors Yes Yes Raises the soil pH; source of magnesium for plants
Magnesium sulfate Not required Will dehydrate when heated; Gives off sulfur oxides at very high temperature Yes Yes Source of magnesium for plants
Manganese dioxide Oxalic acid Converts it into other oxides DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife
Manganese heptoxide Aqueous solutions or suspensions of base, carbonate, bicarbonate Breaks down to manganese dioxide and gives off ozone; may explode DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Burns organic material on contact, even wet organic material
Menthol Incineration; not required Releases carbon dioxide, monoxide, water vapors and soot; Burns in rich oxygen atmosphere Yes Yes Safe, biodegradable; Occurs naturally in various plants, like peppermint
Methane Incineration Releases carbon dioxide and water vapors Not possible Not possible Contributes to global warming
Methanol Incineration Will give off carbon dioxide and water vapor, as well as some formaldehyde if not enough oxygen DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Very toxic to wildlife
Methyl ethyl ketone Incineration Gives off carbon dioxide and water vapors DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife
Methyl formate Incineration Gives off carbon dioxide and water vapors DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Hazardous to environment in large amounts
Methyl nitrate Alkali solution, recommended to be cooled first to prevent possible explosion Will lead to explosion No No Dangerous to wildlife
Methyl salicylate Incineration; Not always required Gives off carbon dioxide and water vapors Yes Yes Low toxicity to environment in small amounts
Methyl tert-butyl ether Incineration Gives off carbon dioxide and water vapors DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Classified as hazardous to environment and ground water
Mineral oil Incineration Will burn at high temperatures, releasing carbon oxides, water vapors and soot No No Oils float on water bodies and inhibit the cellular breathing of many organisms
Naphthalene Incineration, best done in an incinerator with afterburner; Oxidation with Fenton's reagent Generates carbon dioxide, water vapors, carbon monoxide, soot, VOCs DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife
Neodymium oxalate Pyrolysis, followed by recycling of Nd slag Gives off carbon oxides, leaving neodymium oxides and hydroxides behind Do not dump Do not dump Presents toxicity to wildlife due to the oxalate group
Nickel(II) sulfate Precipitation with a soluble hydroxide; precipitate should be taken to disposal centers Gives off sulfur oxide fumes, leaving behind nickel oxide slag DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife, allergen
Nicotine Oxidation; Photolysis; Pyrolysis with selenium Generates carbon oxides, water vapors, soot, VOCs and toxic nicotine vapors Acceptable in small quantities Only as insecticide Deadly to small animals, toxic and addictive to large organisms; absorbs through skin; biodegradable
Nitric acid Any base, hydroxide, carbonate, bicarbonate Boils off, while also giving off nitrogen dioxide fumes Neutralize first Neutralize first Corrosive to organisms and rocks; its salts are excellent nitrogen source for plants
Nitrocellulose Controlled incineration; Hydrolysis with aqueous alkali hydroxide Breaks down to release combustion gasses and self-ignites at 160 °C DO NOT DUMP No; however it can be converted to fertilizer by adding aqueous ammonia Breaks down in the presence of water to give nitric acid, which, after neutralization becomes source of nitrogen for plants
Nitrogen dioxide Bubbling through an alkali solution, peroxide solution Not useful Not possible No Reacts with air moisture to generate nitric acid and contributes to the acid rain; extremely toxic to animals and plants
Nitrogen trichloride Photolysis; Hydrolysis with hot water; Reduction with sodium thiosulfate Detonates DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Corrosive and toxic to wildlife
Nitrogen triiodide Sodium thiosulfate solution Detonation, giving off corrosive iodine vapors DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP The iodine vapors it gives off during decomposition are dangerous to organisms in short term
Nitroglycerin Photolysis; Hydrolysis with cold sodium hydroxide solution Violent detonation DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to organisms; nitrate source for plants
Nitromethane Incineration; Hydrolysis with sodium hydroxide Burns giving off carbon oxides, water vapors and nitrogen gas DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Dangerous to wildlife
Nitrous oxide Gentle reduction with various reducing agents Breaks down to nitrogen and oxygen at high temperatures Not possible Not possible Low toxicity to wildlife, may induce light narcotic effects and laughing sensation in some organisms
Octyl acetate Mixed with a more flammable solvent, followed by incineration Gives off carbon oxides, water vapors and soot Yes Yes Safe, occurs naturally in citrus fruit peels
Oxalic acid Neutralization with any oxide, hydroxide, carbonate, followed by pyrolysis Releases carbon oxides and water vapor at high temperature Yes, but dilute it first No Toxic to wildlife; Small amounts occur in some plants
Ozone Any compound easily oxidizable that does not ignite, such as carbon monoxide, activated charcoal Accelerates the decomposition of ozone, but not enough Not possible No Dangerous to wildlife, may oxidize various gaseous compounds, contributing to the acid rain; In the upper atmosphere it acts as UV shield
Pentaerythritol Mixed with a flammable solvent and incinerated Gives off carbon oxides, water vapors, aldehydes Yes Yes Low toxicity to aquatic life; Classified as biodegradable[8]
Pentane Incineration Flammable, releases carbon oxides, water vapor when burned in air DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Dangerous to wildlife
Perchloric acid Neutralization with potassium, calcium bases, followed by reduction with metallic iron under UV light in the absence of air May explode at high temperatures, at high concentrations Do not dump Do not dump Toxic to wildlife, both animals and plants
Permanganic acid Hydrogen peroxide; Caro's acid Leads to decomposition, resulting in manganese dioxide slag Do not dump Do not dump The resulting manganese dioxide from the decomposition can be toxic if ingested by animals
Peroxymonosulfuric acid Any base, carbonate, bicarbonate May explode if concentrated Neutralize first Neutralize first Strong oxidizer, it is dangerous and toxic to small organisms
Petroleum ether Incineration Burns in the presence of air, to give off carbon dioxide and water vapors DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Dangerous for wildlife and aquatic environment
Phenol Incineration; Oxidation with Fenton's reagent Gives off carbon oxides, water vapors, soot and VOCs DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Dangerous to environment
Phosgene Alkaline metal hydroxide, ammonia NO DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Extremely toxic for all organisms
Phosphine Oxygen; ozone; hydrogen peroxide; bleach May ignite in the presence of air DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Extremely toxic for all organisms, used to kill pests
Phosphoric acid Any metal oxide, hydroxide, carbonate Not very useful Yes, if it's diluted Neutralize it first, good source of phosphorus, unless contaminated Deadly to small animals; excess in water bodies may cause algal bloom
Phosphorus pentoxide‎‎ Alkaline solution, lots of water Will volatilize at very high temperatures No, reaction with water is highly exothermic and may generate acidic steam Neutralize first Corrosive and dangerous on direct contact with wildlife; Reaction with water will lead to phosphoric acid, highly corrosive and dangerous.
Picric acid Hydrolysis with aqueous sodium hydroxide; oxidation with Fenton's reagent; Containers with dry picric acid should be taken by professionals and safely detonated in a remote location Gives off carbon dioxide, water vapors, soot, VOCs DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Very toxic to environment
Polytetrafluoroethylene Not required; Can simply be dumped in trash Generates toxic fluorine, hydrogen fluoride, fluorocarbons and carbon oxide vapors DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Resistant to most corrosive chemicals, cannot be digested by wildlife
Potassium antimony tartrate Pyrolysis, followed by taking the resulting slag to disposal facilities Gives off carbon oxides and water vapors, leaving potassium antimony oxide slag behind Do not dump Do not dump Hazardous to wildlife
Potassium bromide Not required May give off bromine vapors in the presence of water at high temperatures Yes Yes Bromide ions pose little toxicity to wildlife in small amounts
Potassium carbonate Any acid will do No, very high temperatures decompose it to potassium oxide and carbon dioxide, which is quickly reabsorbed as it cools Yes OH YES Excess may increase the soil level of potassium in the dumping area
Potassium chlorate Reduction with metabisulfite, sulfite or bisulfite; a mixture of sulfuric acid and ferric ammonium sulfate can also be used Melts and disproportionates to potassium perchlorate and potassium chloride Small amounts can be dumped, as household bleach already contains a small percentage of chlorates, especially if it's old; Do not dump large quantities No Toxic to plants, was used as a weedkiller in the past
Potassium chloride Not required Melts, not useful Yes Yes, unless the soil is chloride sensitive Presence of chlorides may have a harmful effect to some plants
Potassium dichromate Reducing with a reducing agent, such as sodium metabisulfite, sulfite, bisulfite, ascorbic acid Breaks down, releasing oxygen DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Cr(VI) ions are carcinogenic and very toxic to organisms
Potassium ferrate Any acid, hot water Breaks down to iron(III) oxide and potassium hydroxide, best in the presence of moisture Yes, but recommended to neutralize first Yes, but recommended to neutralize first Dangerous to wildlife in short term
Potassium hexachlorostannate
Potassium hydroxide Any acid, carbon dioxide Not useful Yes Neutralize first; neutralized is a good source of potassium for plants Dangerous to wildlife in short term
Potassium iodide Not required May release iodine vapors in the presence of water Yes Yes Low toxicity to wildlife
Potassium manganate Any reducing agents, such as oxalic acid, hydrogen peroxide Breaks down to manganese oxide and alkali DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Deadly to small organisms, dangerous to organisms in short term
Potassium metabisulfite Bleach Breaks down to release sulfur oxides Yes Yes Dangerous to small organisms
Potassium nitrate Not required Gives off nitrogen oxides at very high temperatures; burns in presence of organic compounds, releasing carbon oxides, nitrogen and leaving behind alkaline slag Yes OH YES Excellent fertilizer, though may lead to uncontrolled algae growth if dumped in water bodies
Potassium perchlorate Reduction with metallic iron under UV light in the absence of air Oxidizes flammable materials, burning them Do not dump Do not dump Hazardous to aquatic life
Potassium permanganate Hydrogen peroxide Decomposes to manganese dioxide at high temperatures DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP The resulting manganese dioxide from the decomposition can be toxic if ingested by animals
Potassium peroxymonosulfate Alkaline solution, sodium carbonate Decomposes, releasing oxygen Recommended be neutralized first Must be neutralized first Dangerous to the environment in short term
Potassium persulfate Pyrolysis, various reducing agents Decomposes Do not dump Do not dump Strong oxidizer, toxic for wildlife
Potassium sodium tartrate Not always required; can be disposed anyway Releases combustion gasses and leaves behind sodium and potassium carbonate Yes Yes Safe, low toxicity
Potassium sulfate Not required Releases sulfur oxides at very high temperatures Yes OH YES Safe, good potassium source for plants
Propane Incineration Burns in the presence of oxygen Not possible Not possible Contributes to the greenhouse effect
Propylene carbonate Incineration, first mix it with a more flammable solvent Burns in the presence of oxygen Yes Yes Low toxicity to organisms
Propylene glycol Not required, though it can be mixed with a flammable solvent and burned Generates carbon oxides and water vapor, as well as other toxic pyrolysis compounds Yes Yes Little toxic effect on aquatic wildlife
Prussian blue Hydrogen peroxide, bleach May give off carbon oxides and nitrogen gasses at high temperatures, as well as cyanide Yes Yes Contact with strong acids may release hydrogen cyanide
Pyranine Not always required Breaks down to combustion gasses and soot Yes Yes Low toxicity to organisms
Pyridine Incineration; Oxidation with Fenton's reagent Gives off carbon oxides, water vapors, soot, amines and nitrogen DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife
Rosocyanine Not required Breaks down to carbon oxides and water vapors Yes Yes Low toxicity to organisms
Safrole Incineration; Not always required Breaks down to combustion gasses, soot Yes Yes Low toxicity to wildlife, occurs naturally
Salicylic acid Not always required Breaks down to phenol; at higher temperatures gives off carbon oxides, water vapors, soot and VOCs Yes Yes Low toxicity to environment, occurs naturally
Schweizer's reagent Any acid Breaks down to copper(I) oxide, gives off water vapors and ammonia DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Copper ions and ammonia are toxic to most animals, especially small ones; ammonia can be a source of nitrogen for plants
Silicon carbide Not required Surface oxidation at high temperatures in oxygen; decomposes at its melting point Not recommended, may clog the plumbing Yes Inert, safe for the environment
Silicon dioxide Not required At high temperatures results in melting; Can be used to indurate crystalline silica Not recommended, may clog the plumbing Yes Finely divided silica is dangerous for fauna
Silver nitrate Photolysis; Reduction with a more reactive metal or a reducing agent like ascorbic acid Breaks down to metallic silver, oxygen and nitrogen dioxide at high temperatures DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife in short term
Sodium acetate Not always required Results in sodium carbonate and acetone at high temperatures, then carbon dioxide and water vapors Yes Not recommended High levels of sodium are toxic for plants
Sodium acetylsalicylate Pyrolysis; Not always required Gives off carbon dioxide, water vapors and soot Yes Not recommended Sodium is toxic for plants
Sodium azide Sodium nitrite, nitrous acid Breaks down to sodium metal and gives off nitrogen gas DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Very toxic for wildlife
Sodium benzoate Not always required May give off benzene vapors Yes Yes, but not in large quantities Too much sodium is harmful to plants; Reaction with certain compounds may release traces of benzene; otherwise safe, occurs naturally
Sodium bicarbonate Any acid or base; not generally required Converts to sodium carbonate Yes No High levels of sodium are toxic for plants
Sodium bisulfate Any base, carbonate, bicarbonate Not useful Yes Do not dump Decreases the soil pH, high levels of sodium are toxic for plants
Sodium carbonate Any acid; Not generally required Not useful Yes No High levels of sodium are toxic for plants
Sodium chlorate Reduction with metabisulfite, sulfite or bisulfite; a mixture of sulfuric acid and ferric ammonium sulfate can also be used Melts and disproportionates to sodium perchlorate and sodium chloride Small amounts can be dumped, as household bleach already contains a small percentage of chlorates, especially if it's old; Do not dump large quantities though No Toxic to plants, was used as a weedkiller in the past
Sodium chloride Not required Not useful Yes No High levels of sodium are toxic for plants
Sodium ferrate Diluted organic solutions will reduce it to its constituent oxides Breaks down to its constituent oxides, both dry and as solution Yes Not recommended due to its sodium content Dangerous to organisms due to its strong oxidizing properties
Sodium hydroxide Any acid, carbon dioxide Not useful Yes Do not dump Dangerous to wildlife in short term; toxic to plants due to sodium ions
Sodium hypochlorite Any reducing agent, such as sodium metabisulfite, bisulfite, sulfite, thiosulfate; Hydrogen peroxide Disproportionates to sodium chlorate and sodium chloride, giving off chlorine Yes DO NOT DUMP Very toxic to organisms, especially aquatic ones; High levels of sodium are toxic for plants
Sodium metabisulfite Bleach Breaks down to release sulfur oxides Yes No Toxic to most fauna; High levels of sodium are toxic for plants
Sodium nitrate Not always required; Ammonium sulfate Not useful; may convert to sodium nitrite Yes No While it is a good source of nitrogen for plants, high levels of sodium are generally undesired in soils
Sodium perchlorate Reduction with metallic iron under UV light in the absence of air Burns in a mixture with flammable materials DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife
Sodium peroxide Any acid and manganese dioxide Not useful DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Corrosive and toxic for wildlife
Sodium silicate Any acid Not useful Not recommended Only in places without plant or animal life (construction sites, quarries, etc.) Sodium ions are toxic to plant roots
Sodium sulfate Not required Not useful Yes No High levels of sodium are toxic for plants
Sodium thiosulfate Bleach Gives off sulfur oxide gasses Yes Yes, but not in large quantities Breaks down rapidly in the environment due to air and microorganisms, yielding sulfides and sulfates.
Solochrome cyanine R
Sorbitol Not needed Melts; Releases carbon dioxide and water vapor at high temperatures Yes Yes Cannot be digested by most organisms, but has no dangerous effects on wildlife;
Strontium carbonate Any acid; Not required; Can be safely dumped in trash Breaks down to strontium oxide and carbon dioxide at high temperatures; reverts as it cools Yes Yes Strontium has little effect on environment
Strontium oxide Lots of water; any diluted acid Not useful Neutralize first Neutralize first Will burn grass on contact; strontium has little effect on environment
Sucrose Not always required Turns into caramel if gently heated and soot at high temperatures Yes Yes Source of food for many small animals
Sulfur dichloride Any base, carbonate, bicarbonate, best as aqueous solution/suspension Boils off DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Extremely corrosive and toxic to all organisms
Sulfur dioxide Any base, bleach (solution); hydrogen sulfide, ammonia (gaseous) Not useful Not possible (gas) Not possible (gas) Contributes to acid rain
Sulfur trioxide Dry calcium carbonate; ammonia Not useful DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Deadly and extremely corrosive to all life; contact with moist air produces sulfuric acid mist; contributes to acid rain
Sulfur hexafluoride Not required May lead to sulfur dioxides and fluorine at very high temperatures Not possible Yes Strong greenhouse effect
Sulfuric acid Any base, carbonate, bicarbonate; Not useful Only if it's followed by large amounts of water; Though best to neutralize it first DO NOT DUMP Corrosive and deadly to wildlife; Lowers soil pH; Corrosive to rocks
Terbium(III) oxide Unnecessary, simply dump in trash Releases absorbed water or carbon dioxide Unnecessary Yes Effects unknown, may stimulate plant growth
Terbium sulfate No required, simply dump in trash Breaks down at high temperatures to release sulfur oxides Yes Yes Effects unknown
Tetraamine copper(II) complex Pyrolysis; any acid Gives off water vapors and ammonia, leaving copper oxide behind Yes, unless there's copper or brass plumbing No Copper ions pose toxicity to most organisms
Tetraaminecopper(II) persulphate Controlled detonation; Any acid Detonation, releasing ammonia, sulfur dioxide copper oxide Do not dump Do not dump Copper ions are toxic to small animals
Tetrachlorocupric acid Any base, carbonate, bicarbonate Gives off hydrochloric acid fumes, leaving copper oxide behind DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Corrosive and toxic for wildlife
Tetrahydrofuran Incineration (no peroxides); Adding excess ferrous sulfate, sodium bisulfite or metabisulfite to neutralize the peroxides, followed by incineration; If the bottle has peroxides on the cap, do not open it, instead safely detonate it in a remote or special area Burns, giving off combustion gasses DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic and dangerous for wildlife
Tin(II) chloride Excess base, carbonate, bicarbonate; Should be taken to waste disposal centers Gives off hydrochloric acid fumes in the presence of moisture DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Corrosive and toxic to wildlife
Tin(IV) chloride Any base, carbonate, bicarbonate; Should be taken to waste disposal centers Gives off hydrochloric acid fumes in moist air DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Corrosive and toxic to wildlife
Titanium dioxide Not required; Can be dumped in trash Not useful; Fuses in the presence of alkaline and alkaline-earth oxides and hydroxides to titanates Yes, but not recommended Yes, but not recommended May lead to staining water bodies and soil in a white color
Toluene Oxidation with Fenton's reagent; Incineration, best done with an afterburner Flammable, burns in air to release carbon oxides, water vapors, soot, VOCs DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife and very dangerous to aquatic life, as well as soil
Trichloroethylene Sodium hydroxide; Oxidation with Fenton's reagent Not useful DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife
Trichloroisocyanuric acid Sodium thiosulfate, sulfite, bisulfite, metabisulfite Breaks down to release chlorine Yes DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife
Triethylamine Diluted with another solvent, followed by incineration; Neutralization with an acid and destroyed via oxidation Burns in air DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to most lifeforms, dangerous to water bodies
Trimethyl borate Incineration; Hydrolysis with water Burns in air Not recommended Not recommended Effects unknown to environment
Tris(ethylenediamine)nickel perchlorate Safe detonation; Residual perchlorates can be destroyed by adding metallic iron under UV light, in the absence of air. Detonates Do not dump Do not dump Nickel and perchlorates are toxic to environment
Tungsten carbide Not required; can be dumped in trash or taken to waste disposal centers Not useful (refractory) DO NOT DUMP Yes (if pure); No (if it contains cobalt) Toxic to the environment if it contains cobalt
Urea Not required Generates carbon oxides, nitrogen fumes; May corrode metal container, if done in one Yes OH YES May cause uncontrolled algae growth in water bodies
Urea nitrate Cooled basic solution (NaOH, KOH, Ca(OH)2) Decomposes when burned; May explode if heated at high temperatures Yes OH YES! Safe, good fertilizer; May cause uncontrolled algae growth in water bodies
Vanadium pentoxide Not required; should be taken to disposal facilities Not useful; Turns into oxides of lower states at high temperatures DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Vanadium ions pose toxicity for wildlife
Water Not required Leads to steam YES YES It's...water
Xylene Oxidation with Fenton's reagent; Incineration, best with an afterburner Burns in air, to release combustion gasses, soot and VOCs DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife and hazardous to water bodies
Xylitol Not required Melts when heated; not useful Yes Yes Cannot be digested by most lifeforms, otherwise little to no toxicity
Zinc carbonate Not required Breaks down to zinc oxide and carbon oxide at high temperatures Yes Yes Unless contaminated, good source of zinc for plants, though a bit too alkaline
Zinc chloride Any base, carbonate, bicarbonate Gives off hydrochloric acid fumes if moist Neutralize first Neutralize first Chlorides are dangerous for chloride-sensitive plants in large quantities
Zinc chromate Reducing with a reducing agent, such as sodium metabisulfite, sulfite, bisulfite, ascorbic acid Not very useful DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Cr(VI) is toxic for wildlife
Zinc oxide Not required; Weak acids can be used to dissolve zinc oxide stains to soluble zinc compounds Turns the oxide yellow at high temperatures; process is reversible Not recommended Yes, but not recommended May pose a threat to aquatic life in large quantities
Zinc peroxide Hydrolysis with water; Any acid May explode at over 212 °C Best to neutralize it first No Peroxides are deadly to small animals
Zinc phosphate Not required Not useful No Yes Source of zinc and phosphorus for wildlife
Zinc sulfate Not always required; Zinc metal can be recovered through electrowinning and the diluted sulfuric acid neutralized with a base Not useful Yes Yes Unless contaminated, is a good source of zinc for plants
Zinc sulfide Hydrogen peroxide May give off hydrogen sulfide in the presence of water at high temperatures DO NOT DUMP DO NOT DUMP Toxic to wildlife
Zirconyl chloride

References

  1. http://woelen.homescience.net/science/chem/exps/rules.html
  2. http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp187-c5.pdf
  3. http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2FBF02318626
  4. http://pubs.rsc.org/en/Content/ArticleLanding/2007/EM/b709571f#!divAbstract
  5. http://www.google.com/patents/US2519284
  6. Chemical Technology and Emission Control, 2012, M.B. Hocking, p. 216
  7. http://www.drugfuture.com/chemdata/cuprous-sulfite.html
  8. http://www.inchem.org/documents/sids/sids/115775.pdf

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