How to Recycle Industrial Adhesives & Sealants
Used industrial adhesives, epoxies, polyurethanes, and sealants from manufacturing operations. Contains hazardous chemicals requiring specialized disposal but offers solvent recovery opportunities worth $2-6 per gallon. US industries generate 25+ million gallons annually with increasing chemical recycling capabilities.
- 1Identify adhesive chemistry type using Safety Data Sheets
- 2Keep different adhesive types strictly separated
- 3Remove from packaging and store in compatible containers
- 4Test for cross-contamination with other chemicals
- 5Document cure state and contamination levels
- 6Store in temperature-controlled environment to prevent further curing
- 7Keep containers sealed to prevent skin formation and solvent evaporation
- 8Remove any metal or plastic substrates adhered to adhesives
- 9Schedule pickup quickly as cured adhesives lose recycling value
- Hazardous waste treatment facilities (Clean Harbors, Veolia)
- Chemical recovery specialists focusing on adhesives
- Paint and coating recyclers with adhesive capabilities
- Cement kiln fuel programs for energy recovery
- Specialized solvent recovery operations
- Industrial incineration facilities with pollution controls
Many adhesives contain isocyanates causing severe respiratory sensitization and asthma. Epoxies may contain bisphenol-A (BPA) requiring reporting. Never mix different adhesive chemistries as reactions can generate toxic gases. Requires hazardous waste manifesting and specialized transport.
Contains persistent organic compounds and heavy metals that bioaccumulate in food chains. Improper disposal contaminates soil for decades. However, solvent recovery programs reclaim 60%+ of volatile components, and thermal treatment captures energy while destroying persistent compounds under controlled conditions.
Accepted
- Uncured liquid adhesives and epoxies
- Partially cured sealants with solvent content
- Adhesive contaminated solvents and thinners
- Off-specification adhesive batches
- Expired shelf-life adhesive products
- Adhesive mixing and application waste
Not Accepted
- Fully cured adhesives and sealants
- Adhesives mixed with metal or plastic substrates
- Water-based adhesives mixed with solvent types
- Adhesives contaminated with unknown chemicals
- Reactive adhesives generating heat or gases
Estimated value: $2-6 per gallon for solvent recovery; energy recovery value $100-200 per ton as alternative fuel
- Isocyanates (MDI, TDI) causing respiratory sensitization
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and aromatic solvents
- Heavy metal catalysts (lead, mercury, cadmium)
- Bisphenol-A and other endocrine disruptors
- Formaldehyde and other carcinogenic compounds
Can cured adhesives be recycled?
Fully cured thermoset adhesives cannot be chemically recycled but may be accepted for energy recovery. Thermoplastic adhesives may have limited recycling options through dissolution processes.
Are water-based adhesives easier to handle?
Generally yes, but they still may contain formaldehyde, acrylates, or other hazardous components. Always check Safety Data Sheets and handle according to classification requirements.
What safety precautions are essential for adhesive waste?
Use supplied-air respiratory protection with isocyanates, prevent skin contact with epoxies, maintain ventilation for solvent vapors, and have emergency eyewash/shower available.
Can different adhesive types be mixed for disposal?
No! Different chemistries can react violently. Epoxies with isocyanates, or acids with bases can generate heat, gas, or toxic compounds. Always keep separated by chemistry type.
How long can liquid adhesives be stored before disposal?
Depends on chemistry. Fast-cure systems may harden in days, while stable formulations last months. Store in cool conditions and monitor for viscosity changes indicating cure progression.
Are there alternatives to disposal for waste adhesives?
Some uncured adhesives can be reformulated or used in lower-performance applications. Energy recovery in cement kilns is often preferred over landfill disposal for economic and environmental reasons.
What documentation is required for adhesive waste disposal?
Safety Data Sheets, waste characterization analysis, hazardous waste manifests, and potentially notification under SARA Title III for certain chemicals like TDI or formaldehyde.
Can small quantities be handled differently than large volumes?
Very Small Quantity Generator status (<100 kg/month) may have simplified requirements, but chemistry-specific regulations still apply. Professional disposal is recommended regardless of quantity.