Much of the waste we handle can be either easily recycled or should simply go to a landfill. However, there are some substances that require special handling. Inks and resins are some of those materials. Care should be taken to dispose of them to ensure that there is no contamination to the environment or hazards to humans or animals.
Some printers have ink cartridges that need to be drained before discarding or refilling. This is especially the case with commercial printers and large-scale presses. Waste ink is classified as industrial waste. Thus, there are local and state regulations that govern the disposal of this type of waste.
But even small home printers generate waste ink. This results when the printhead needs to be purged to clear out any solid ink deposits. In some cases, waste ink is collected into padding. This ink cannot be recycled or reused, so it is important to dispose of it properly.
Even excess tattoo ink needs proper disposal. Some of this leftover ink is considered medical waste. There are several ways to handle this, including contracting with a medical waste handler or using a medical waste recovery system that lets you mail in this waste in special infectious waste collection containers.
Resin is a versatile material used in many applications. In construction, it acts as a binding agent in composite materials. It is also used as a coating and sealant for flooring and countertops. It is useful in harsh marine environments to strengthen boats and other watercraft.
One innovation in 3D printing uses resin. Resin-based 3D printing, also known as stereolithography (SLA) or digital light processing (DLP) uses resin to create high-resolution 3D models and prototypes.
Whenever resin is used, there likely will be leftover or waste resin. The level of hazard it poses to the humans and the environment depends on whether it is in liquid or solid form. Proper disposal is subject to a combination of federal, state, and local regulations.
Both waste ink and resin can be recycled. Check with your local recycling center to find the nearest collection point near you.
Waste ink and resin should never be dumped down a drain or toilet. Instead, you should locate a hazardous waste facility near you. Be sure to secure the containers you are using to transport your waste ink and resin to avoid any spillage in your vehicle.
Leftover inks and resins can sometimes be used again for another project. This is a viable option as long as the inks and resins are uncontaminated. They should be clean and secured in an airtight container. Some organizations will accept donations of ink and resin to use in special projects.
Additives can be mixed with your liquid ink and resin that will cause it to solidify. Once it is a solid mass, it can be placed in the trash for regular pickup and transport to your local landfill. Ink solidifiers are typically made from absorbent granular polymers. When resin is mixed with a hardener, it will quickly solidify. There are some limitations to hardening if the materials will be heated, so be sure that your local landfill will accept hardened ink or resin before tossing.
There are companies that specialize in the cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials. If you have a large quantity of ink or resin to dispose of, consider hiring a company to handle it all from start to finish. This is the best way to ensure that you are in compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.
Inks and resins pose some disposal challenges, so ensuring that they are handled correctly is important. There are local and state restrictions on the types of materials that can enter a landfill, so check with officials in your area if you need to dispose of large quantities of these substances.
You should never dispose of leftover ink or resins by pouring them down a sink or into a toilet. Not only does this cause plumbing issues, but it’s prohibited by local and state regulations. Adding these materials to the local water supply causes environmental issues and can result in fines.
At Discount Dumpster, we’re committed to responsible waste disposal. When you call to order your dumpster, if you have any special waste such as inks or resins, let us know. We have experience in all types of trash and the know-how to direct you to alternative methods of disposal or recycling. We will review all regulations with you to ensure you comply with any restrictions on what can be placed in your dumpster. Give us a call to discuss your special job, and we’ll provide you with affordable and flexible disposal options.
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Table of Contents Complications of Ink and Resin Disposal How to Dispose of Inks and Resins 1. Recycle Leftover Ink and Resin 2. Dispose of Inks and Resins at a Hazardous Waste Facility 3. Reuse or Donate 4. Transform Liquid Inks and Resins into Solids 5. Use a Professional Disposal Service Take Care to Properly […]