Household batteries: Evaluation of collection methods

Technical Report · Thu Dec 31 04:00:00 EST 1992

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/10109483· OSTI ID:10109483

Seeberger, D A

While it is difficult to prove that a specific material is causing contamination in a landfill, tests have been conducted at waste-to-energy facilities that indicate that household batteries contribute significant amounts of heavy metals to both air emissions and ash residue. Hennepin County, MN, used a dual approach for developing and implementing a special household battery collection. Alternative collection methods were examined; test collections were conducted. The second phase examined operating and disposal policy issues. This report describes the results of the grant project, moving from a broad examination of the construction and content of batteries, to a description of the pilot collection programs, and ending with a discussion of variables affecting the cost and operation of a comprehensive battery collection program. Three out-of-state companies (PA, NY) were found that accept spent batteries; difficulties in reclaiming household batteries are discussed.

• Research Organization: Urban Consortium for Technology Initiatives (United States). Energy Task Force; Public Technology, Inc., Washington, DC (United States); Hennepin County Dept. of Environmental Management, Minneapolis, MN (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
• DOE Contract Number: FG02-78IR05106
• OSTI ID: 10109483
• Report Number(s): DOE/IR/05106--6; ON: DE93005627
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
320604
ELECTRIC BATTERIES
FEASIBILITY STUDIES
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
HOUSEHOLDS
MATERIALS RECOVERY
MINNESOTA
MUNICIPAL WASTE MANAGEMENT
RECYCLING
URBAN AREAS
WASTE MANAGEMENT