Sorbents cannot be placed in the trash without evaluation for hazardous waste characteristics.

Companies can reduce sorbent use and lower waste costs by applying cleanup methods that capture liquid oil for recycling. Use equipment such as drip pans, squeegees and liquid vacuums to capture visible oil before using sorbents. Companies can also minimize sorbent waste by fully using sorbent materials until they are no longer effective before sending them off-site for management. Wringing and mechanical extraction can help extend the life of sorbent materials.

Three common methods used to manage used sorbents are high-pressure solvent extraction, permitted laundering and off-site burning for energy recovery. Both solvent extraction and laundering allow absorbent materials to be put back in use many times, conserving resources. Before sending your sorbents to be laundered, the free oil should be removed by wringing using a mechanical wringer or extractor. The recovered oil can be reused or managed as used oil.

See Recycling & Disposal Sites for sorbent management options. If you have further questions about automotive fluids, filters, sorbent management, or transporters, contact your county hazardous waste office or the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency at (651) 296-6300.