MERCURY SOLUTIONS

What is Mercury?
Mercury is a naturally occurring element that does not break down. Also known as quicksilver, it is found in very small amounts in air, water, rocks, and soil. The element becomes airborne when rocks break down, volcanoes erupt, and soil decomposes. It then circulates and is redistributed throughout the environment.

While Mercury is useful, it is also dangerous. When carelessly handled or improperly disposed of, mercury gets into drinking water, lakes, rivers and streams and becomes a threat to human health and the environment. (For more information on health issues related to Mercury, see the links on this page to EPA's web page.)

Products That Contain Mercury
Mercury metal has many uses. Because of its high density, it is used in barometers and manometers. With its high rate of thermal expansion that is fairly constant over a wide temperature range, mercury is found extensively in thermometers and thermostats. Mercury is used in fluorescent lamps, streetlights, at water treatment plants as a disinfectant, and in tanning beds. Mercury is used as an electrode in the production of chlorine and sodium hydroxide and in certain electric batteries. Mercury compounds are found in electrochemical measurement instruments, pigments, and organic chemistry. Most medical uses of mercury have been banned or are being phased out. State and federal agencies continue to encourage industries to reduce the amount of mercury being used and exported.

For a listing of acceptable mercury waste types, click here

• What is Mercury
• Products that Contain Mercury

• What is Mercury
• Products that Contain Mercury

Additional Information about Mercury Solutions (download a pdf or order a brochure)
Expert Solutions for Managing Mercury	Download   Request Hard Copy
Mercury VaporLok® The Safest Way for Transporting Mercury	Download   Request Hard Copy
Accepted Mercury-Containing Materials for Reclamation	Download   Request Hard Copy