Re: [Phys-l] CFL's not such a hot idea

["Paul Lulai" <plulai@stanthony.k12.mn.us>]

What is considered to be proper procedure for recycling cfl's?  The nearest recycler has all fluorescents put into a metal garbage can.  The employees (some of my students) use a tamper to break all of the bulbs.  The kids are told to wear a cloth mask.  The rule is not enforced.  
I've told the kids that this is dangerous.  They laugh it off. 
How does a site get certified for this stuff?  

Paul Lulai
Physics Teacher & Online Learning Coordinator
St. Anthony Village Senior High
Saint Anthony Village, MN
55418
(w) 612-706-1144
(fax) 612-706-1020
plulai@stanthony.k12.mn.us



-----Original Message-----
From: phys-l-bounces@carnot.physics.buffalo.edu on behalf of Stefan Jeglinski
Sent: Tue 5/1/2007 10:55 AM
To: Forum for Physics Educators
Subject: Re: [Phys-l] CFL's not such a hot idea
 
> The question is, if mercury containing lamps are landfilled, how much of
> the mercury will get into the ground water.  Some say that in a good
> landfill, none should get into the groundwater.

I also found this interesting:

http://www.orcbs.msu.edu/waste/resources_links/universal_waste/universal_waste.htm

The "green end" tubes, at least for this waste disposal site's 
suggestion, cause a greater concern for glass shrapnel. No apparent 
concern that boxing and placing in a dumpster will almost certainly 
cause them to eventually be crushed and the Hg released. Perhaps 
entrainment in the cardboard is considered enough, aside the 
assumption of a "good landfill."


Stefan Jeglinski
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