Hazardous waste characterisation of high–density discharge lamps

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the relative hazards of used high intensity discharge lamps, based on metal analysis. The paper indicates the inherent difficulties associated with the samples and describes how this particular type of waste might be analysed. The lamps were analysed for total and soluble metals, including mercury, in order to determine inorganic persistent and bio–accumulative toxic substances. The data generated are being used to develop guidelines for the hazardous waste characterisation of these lamps in California, using California Code of Regulations, Title 22, and EPA (SW846) procedures.