Choose TL tube recycling!
We are specialized in the collection and recycling of fluorescent tubes. Contact us or request a sharp quote directly.
Recycling fluorescent tubes
Recycling of fluorescent tubes is essential because of the harmful substances they contain and the valuable materials that can be reused. Fluorescent tubes contain, among other things, mercury, a hazardous substance that is harmful to the environment and public health if disposed of incorrectly.
By recycling fluorescent tubes, you not only prevent environmental damage, but you also contribute to the conservation of raw materials such as glass, aluminium and phosphorus. Correct Fluorescent lamps disposal is not only an environmentally friendly choice, but also a crucial step towards a circular economy.
Why is recycling fluorescent tubes important?
It is important to recycle fluorescent tubes because they contain mercury, among other things. This is a very toxic metal that is harmful to humans, animals and the environment. Throw away fluorescent tubes in the residual waste ensures that these hazardous substances end up in the air, soil or groundwater, which leads to serious environmental damage. In addition, a fluorescent tube contains valuable materials such as glass, aluminium and phosphorus, which are very suitable for reuse.
By recycling fluorescent tubes, you prevent hazardous substances from being released and you contribute to the conservation of raw materials. This is not only a sustainable choice, but also a legal obligation for companies and individuals.
How are fluorescent tubes recycled?
How does fluorescent tube recycling work? The process begins with the collection of old tubes at approved collection points. The tubes are then taken to a recycling facility where they are processed in a safe manner. The recycling process consists of the following steps:
Sorting and preparing
The fluorescent tubes are sorted and prepared for further processing. Broken and intact tubes are treated separately.Separation of materials
The tube is carefully broken in a sealed system to prevent mercury vapors from escaping. The glass, aluminum, and phosphor powder are separated from each other.Mercury Removal
The phosphor powder, which contains small amounts of mercury, is treated in a distillation process where the mercury is collected. This mercury can then be reused in industrial applications.Recycling materials
- Glass: The glass is cleaned and reused in the glass industry.
- Aluminum: The aluminum from the electrodes is melted and reused.
- Phosphorus: The phosphor powder is processed for use in new light sources or other applications.
This recycling process ensures that more than 90% of the materials from a fluorescent tube are reused, contributing to a more sustainable economy.
Does a fluorescent lamp fall under chemical waste?
Yes, a TL lamp is classified as chemical waste due to the presence of mercury and phosphorus. Mercury is classified as 'heavy metals' and is harmful to health and the environment. In addition, phosphorus powder also carries chemical risks.
Because of these risks, it is mandatory to hand in fluorescent lamps at approved collection points for chemical waste. This ensures that they are processed and recycled safely.
How much mercury is in a fluorescent lamp?
An average 100cm to 120cm fluorescent lamp contains approximately 2 to 5 milligrams of mercury. Although this may seem like a small amount, even a tiny amount of mercury can be harmful to the eyes, respiratory tract and skin.
In recycling, this mercury is safely disposed of and often reused in industrial processes. Accurate collection and recycling of fluorescent tubes is therefore of great importance to prevent mercury pollution.
What harmful substances are in a fluorescent tube?
The main harmful substances in a fluorescent tube are:
Mercury
- Mercury is a toxic metal used in fluorescent tubes to generate UV light, which is then converted into visible light by the phosphor layer.
- Even small amounts of mercury can be harmful to the environment and health, especially if it ends up in the air, soil or water. Nature cannot break it down by itself.
Phosphorus powder
- The inside of the tube is coated with phosphor powder. This powder helps convert the UV light into visible light, but contains chemicals that can be harmful if released.
- The inside of the tube is coated with phosphor powder. This powder helps convert the UV light into visible light, but contains chemicals that can be harmful if released.
Lead
- Lead can be present in the electrodes or solder points of older fluorescent tubes. This heavy metal is harmful to both people, animals and nature.
- Lead can be present in the electrodes or solder points of older fluorescent tubes. This heavy metal is harmful to both people, animals and nature.
Other metals and chemical compounds
- In some cases, traces of other metals or chemicals may be present, depending on the type and manufacturer of the fluorescent tube.
Where can I hand in old fluorescent tubes?
As a private individual, you can hand in old TL tubes at recycling centers, DIY stores, or supermarkets that have collection points for small chemical waste. Companies can have their TL tubes collected by specialized collection companies or return them to suppliers.
It is important not to throw fluorescent tubes in the regular waste, because this can lead to environmental damage. Furthermore, this is an unnecessary loss of valuable materials.
TL tube waste from companies
TL tube waste of companies must be disposed of according to legal regulations. This means that companies must collect their fluorescent tubes and hand them in to recognized waste processors. Recognized waste collection companies offer a special collection service for chemical waste.
Some suppliers of lamps also allow you as a company to return your old fluorescent tubes directly. This is an efficient way to have old lamps recycled safely and sustainably.
TL lamp waste from private individuals
TL lamp waste from private individuals can easily be disposed of via recycling centers or shops with special collection bins. Many municipalities offer information about collection options in your area. Private individuals must ensure that they keep TL tubes intact during transport, as leakage of harmful substances is dangerous.
