Toxic components in antifreeze fluids

Antifreeze fluids are an integral part of the automotive industry and cooling systems of various machines and equipment. They are used to prevent freezing of liquids in cooling systems at low temperatures and to protect against overheating. The main components of antifreeze liquids are ethylene glycol and propylene glycol, which ensure the efficient functioning of cooling systems. However, these substances are dangerous for the environment and human health.

Ethylene glycol is highly toxic and has a sweet taste, making it particularly dangerous because children and animals can accidentally ingest it. Ethylene glycol poisoning can lead to serious consequences, including damage to the kidneys, nervous system and even death. Propylene glycol is less toxic, but its excessive exposure to the body can also cause harmful effects.

Antifreeze fluids containing hazardous substances are often dumped without proper treatment or recycling. This leads to water, soil and air pollution, creating a serious threat to ecosystems and human health. Antifreeze leaks can occur due to damage to automotive cooling systems, improper storage or transportation of fluids.

Another problem is that many users are not aware of the dangers posed by antifreeze fluids. They may pour these liquids into drains, onto the ground or into bodies of water, not realizing that such actions cause significant damage to the environment. Illegal dumping and improper storage (D15) of antifreeze fluids contribute to the accumulation of toxic substances in natural resources, which has long-term negative consequences.

Effective management of hazardous waste antifreeze fluids containing hazardous substances is critical to reducing their impact on the environment. This includes proper collection, transportation, sorting and treatment of these wastes. It is also necessary to develop and implement more environmentally friendly alternatives for antifreeze fluids to reduce the use of toxic components.

One ​​of the important aspects of solving this problem is raising public awareness of the dangers associated with antifreeze fluids. It is necessary to conduct educational campaigns that explain how to properly store and  use these liquids. In addition, the standards of storage and transportation of antifreeze liquids should be increased in order to minimize the risks of leaks and contamination.

Reducing the harmful effects of antifreeze fluids containing hazardous substances is possible thanks to the implementation of comprehensive environmental management measures. The main directions include:

• use of less toxic alternative materials;
• development and implementation of antifreeze processing technologies;
• increasing storage and transportation standards;
• regular monitoring of the state of the environment;
• increasing public awareness of dangers.

Antifreeze liquids containing dangerous substances. Code according to the National list of waste 16 01 14 *. Operations in accordance with Annexes 1, 2 to the Law of Ukraine "On Waste Management" D10, D15.

Code according to Annexes VIII, IX to the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Shipments of Hazardous Wastes and their Utilization/Removal А3040 (АС050)

Operations for the collection, sorting, crushing and processing of hazardous waste antifreeze liquids containing hazardous substances must be carried out taking into account all environmental and safety standards. The transportation of hazardous waste antifreeze fluids containing hazardous substances must be carried out in accordance with the legislation, observing all safety measures.

UtilVtorProm is one of the companies engaged in environmental management of hazardous waste. We specialize in processing a variety of hazardous waste, including antifreeze fluids containing hazardous substances. Our methods include the collection, sorting, crushing and processing of hazardous waste, as well as transporting it to specialized processing centers. We strive to ensure safe and ecological waste management, minimizing their impact on the environment and human health.

Thus, the proper management of hazardous waste antifreeze fluids containing hazardous substances is a key element to protect the environment and human health. Implementation of modern methods of recycling and disposal, compliance with safety standards and raising public awareness will help reduce the negative impact of these hazardous substances.