How should operators dispose of hazardous additive manufacturing materials?

Disposing of hazardous additive manufacturing materials requires careful handling to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. The best practice is to seal these materials in containers for pickup by a licensed disposal agency. This method ensures that the hazardous substances are handled appropriately by professionals trained in hazardous waste management, thereby minimizing risks to human health and the environment.

Using this method also adheres to environmental regulations that govern the disposal of hazardous materials, reducing the possibility of contamination and accidents. Other options, such as burning in an incinerator or mixing with non-hazardous waste, can pose significant risks, including the release of toxic emissions or the inadvertent creation of new hazardous waste streams. Throwing hazardous materials in regular trash is also a violation of waste management laws and can lead to serious environmental consequences. Hence, sealing hazardous materials for collection by experts is the safest and most responsible choice.