Acids & Bases Disposal Services
Safe Disposal of Corrosive Acids & Bases for Businesses Nationwide
Acids and bases are corrosive hazardous wastes that require specialized disposal. From laboratory reagents to industrial process chemicals, EPA regulations mandate proper handling of these materials. Hazardous Waste Disposal provides expert acid and base disposal services for businesses nationwide.
Call (800) 582-4833 for acid and base disposal services or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com
What Are Acids and Bases?
Acids and bases are corrosive chemicals that can cause severe burns, damage equipment, and harm the environment. EPA classifies these materials as D002 corrosive hazardous waste when they meet specific criteria.
EPA Corrosive Waste Definition:
pH ≤ 2 (acids)
pH ≥ 12.5 (bases)
Liquids that corrode steel at specific rates
Why Acids and Bases Require Special Disposal:
Severe chemical burns to skin and eyes
Corrode containers and equipment
React violently with incompatible materials
Generate toxic fumes
Contaminate water sources
EPA RCRA regulations mandate proper disposal
Severe penalties for improper disposal or discharge
Chemical Properties:
Acids donate hydrogen ions (H+)
Bases accept hydrogen ions or donate hydroxide ions (OH-)
React with each other (neutralization)
React with metals, organics, and other materials
Wide range of strengths and concentrations
Common Acids We Handle
Strong Acids
Sulfuric Acid (H₂SO₄):
Battery acid
Industrial dehydrating agent
Drain cleaners
Metal pickling
Chemical manufacturing
Oil refining
Concentrations: 10% to 98% (concentrated)
Hazards: Severe corrosive, generates heat when diluted, dehydrates organic matter
Hydrochloric Acid (HCl / Muriatic Acid):
Metal cleaning and etching
pH adjustment
Swimming pool maintenance
Masonry cleaning
Steel pickling
Ore processing
Concentrations: 10% to 37%
Hazards: Severe corrosive, releases toxic HCl gas, reacts with bleach to form chlorine gas
Nitric Acid (HNO₃):
Metal etching and passivation
Chemical synthesis
Explosives manufacturing
Laboratory reagent
Semiconductor processing
Concentrations: 10% to 70% (red fuming nitric acid >70%)
Hazards: Severe corrosive, strong oxidizer, reacts violently with organics, generates toxic nitrogen dioxide fumes
Phosphoric Acid (H₃PO₄):
Rust removal
Metal treatment and phosphating
Food industry
Fertilizer production
Dental etchant
Concentrations: 10% to 85%
Hazards: Corrosive, less aggressive than other mineral acids
Organic Acids
Acetic Acid (CH₃COOH):
Laboratory reagent
Chemical intermediate
Food processing
Textile industry
Concentrations: 5% (vinegar) to 99% (glacial acetic acid)
Hazards: Corrosive at high concentrations, flammable, pungent odor
Formic Acid (HCOOH):
Leather tanning
Textile dyeing
Rubber production
Laboratory reagent
Hazards: Corrosive, toxic fumes
Citric Acid:
Cleaning agent
Food processing
Metal chelating
Passivation
Hazards: Mildly corrosive, irritant
Oxalic Acid:
Rust removal
Wood bleaching
Metal polishing
Hazards: Toxic, corrosive, harmful if ingested
Specialty Acids
Hydrofluoric Acid (HF):
Glass etching
Semiconductor processing
Metal cleaning
Oil refining
Hazards: EXTREMELY DANGEROUS - penetrates skin, damages bones, can be fatal in small amounts
Chromic Acid (H₂CrO₄):
Metal plating and etching
Wood preservation
Glass cleaning
Hazards: Highly corrosive, carcinogenic, strong oxidizer
Perchloric Acid (HClO₄):
Laboratory reagent
Metal etching
Explosives
Hazards: Strong oxidizer, explosive when concentrated with organics
Common Bases We Handle
Strong Bases (Caustics)
Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH / Caustic Soda / Lye):
Drain cleaners
Soap making
Chemical manufacturing
Pulp and paper processing
Food processing
Petroleum refining
Metal cleaning
Concentrations: 5% to 50%
Hazards: Severe corrosive, dissolves proteins and fats, generates heat when dissolved
Potassium Hydroxide (KOH / Caustic Potash):
Biodiesel production
Battery electrolyte
Soap making
Chemical manufacturing
Concentrations: 5% to 50%
Hazards: Similar to sodium hydroxide, highly corrosive
Calcium Hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂ / Slaked Lime):
Water treatment
Flue gas treatment
Masonry work
Soil stabilization
Hazards: Corrosive, skin and eye irritant
Ammonium Hydroxide (NH₄OH / Aqua Ammonia):
Cleaning solutions
pH adjustment
Food processing
Fertilizer production
Concentrations: 5% to 30%
Hazards: Corrosive, toxic fumes, irritant to eyes and respiratory system
Moderate Bases
Sodium Carbonate (Na₂CO₃ / Soda Ash):
Water treatment
Glass manufacturing
Detergents and soaps
pH adjustment
Hazards: Irritant, mildly corrosive at high concentrations
Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO₃ / Baking Soda):
pH buffer
Neutralization agent
Fire extinguisher agent
Hazards: Minimal - irritant only
Trisodium Phosphate (TSP):
Heavy-duty cleaning
Degreasing
Paint preparation
Hazards: Corrosive, irritant
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats):**
Disinfectants
Sanitizers
Algaecides
Hazards: Varies by formulation, can be corrosive
Industries That Generate Acid and Base Waste
Metal Finishing & Manufacturing
Electroplating facilities
Metal etching operations
Anodizing shops
Pickling operations
Passivation processes
Metal cleaning and degreasing
Surface treatment
Chemical Manufacturing
Pharmaceutical production
Chemical synthesis
Catalyst manufacturing
Specialty chemical production
Process chemical production
Laboratories
Research laboratories
Testing laboratories
Quality control labs
Academic institutions
Government facilities
Hospital labs
Water Treatment
Municipal water treatment
Industrial water treatment
Wastewater treatment
Boiler water treatment
Cooling tower treatment
Automotive
Battery manufacturing and recycling
Auto parts manufacturing
Metal treatment
Surface finishing
Electronics
Semiconductor manufacturing
Circuit board etching
Electronics cleaning
Display manufacturing
Food & Beverage
pH adjustment
Cleaning and sanitizing
Process control
Equipment cleaning
Petroleum & Mining
Oil refining
Gas processing
Ore processing
Metal extraction
Mineral processing
Pulp & Paper
Pulping processes
Bleaching
pH control
Chemical recovery
Other Industries
Textile processing
Leather tanning
Swimming pool maintenance
Building maintenance
Construction (concrete work)
Acid and Base Regulations
EPA RCRA Regulations
Corrosive Hazardous Waste (D002):
Waste is corrosive if:
Aqueous solution with pH ≤ 2 or ≥ 12.5
Liquid that corrodes steel (SAE 1020) at rate >6.35 mm per year at 55°C
Generator Category Requirements:
Large Quantity Generator (LQG):
Generates >1,000 kg (2,200 lbs) per month
90-day accumulation limit
Full RCRA compliance required
EPA ID number required
Personnel training mandatory
Contingency plan required
Small Quantity Generator (SQG):
Generates 100-1,000 kg per month
180-day accumulation limit (270 days if >200 miles to disposal)
EPA ID number required
Basic compliance requirements
Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG):
Generates <100 kg per month
Minimal requirements
Must ensure proper disposal
No EPA ID required
Incompatibility Requirements
CRITICAL - Never Mix:
Acids with bases (violent reaction, heat generation)
Acids with cyanides (deadly hydrogen cyanide gas)
Acids with sulfides (toxic hydrogen sulfide gas)
Acids with active metals (hydrogen gas, fire/explosion)
Oxidizing acids (nitric, chromic) with organics (fire/explosion)
Hydrofluoric acid requires special handling
Segregation Required:
Store acids separate from bases
Separate oxidizing acids from organic acids
Keep incompatible materials isolated
Secondary containment for each type
DOT Transportation
Corrosive Materials:
Class 8 hazardous materials
Proper shipping names required
Packaging requirements
Placarding requirements
We handle all DOT compliance
Discharge Regulations
Clean Water Act:
pH discharge limits: typically 5.0-11.0
Local pretreatment standards
Prohibited discharges
Severe penalties for violations
Never discharge to:
Storm drains
Sanitary sewers (without permit and treatment)
Ground
Waterways
Our Acid and Base Disposal Services
Containerized Collection
For smaller quantities:
5-gallon to 55-gallon drum collection
IBC tote collection (275-330 gallons)
Scheduled or on-demand pickup
Proper DOT containers provided
Complete manifests and documentation
We handle:
Laboratory acids and bases
Process chemicals
Spent acids and bases
Contaminated solutions
Mixed acid or base waste
Bulk Liquid Pickup
For larger volumes:
Tanker truck service (2,000-6,000 gallons)
Tank and sump pump-out
Direct loading from process tanks
Scheduled regular service
Emergency response available
Applications:
Manufacturing facilities
Metal finishing plants
Water treatment operations
Large batch processes
Waste Characterization
We provide:
pH testing
Concentration analysis if needed
EPA waste code determination
Compatibility assessment
Proper disposal pathway
Why characterization matters:
Determines disposal method
Ensures safety
Affects disposal cost
Required for proper manifesting
Neutralization Services
When appropriate:
On-site pH adjustment
Neutralization to non-hazardous
Reduce disposal costs
Allow discharge (if permitted)
Requirements:
Must meet discharge limits
Proper permits required
pH between 5.0-11.0
No other hazardous characteristics
We can consult on feasibility
Lab Pack Services
For multiple small containers:
Acids packed separately from bases
Proper segregation in drums
Absorbent material
Complete inventory
On-site packing service
Emergency Response
24/7 availability for:
Acid/base spills
Tank leaks or failures
Process upsets
Mixing incidents
Regulatory inspections
Urgent compliance needs
Proper Storage & Handling
Acid Storage Requirements
Storage containers:
Polyethylene or compatible material
Glass for small quantities
Stainless steel for some acids (not HCl)
Never use carbon steel with acids
Proper venting
Good condition, no leaks
Storage area:
Well-ventilated
Cool, dry location
Away from bases and incompatibles
Secondary containment (110% capacity)
Acid-resistant flooring
Eye wash and safety shower nearby
Spill kit readily available
Segregation:
Organic acids separate from inorganic
Oxidizing acids isolated
Keep away from reactive materials
Separate from bases
Base Storage Requirements
Storage containers:
Polyethylene preferred
Stainless steel acceptable
Never use aluminum with strong bases
Glass for small quantities
Proper sealing
Storage area:
Well-ventilated
Away from acids
Secondary containment
Resistant flooring
Safety equipment nearby
Labeling Requirements
All containers must be labeled:
"Hazardous Waste"
Chemical identity (e.g., "Sulfuric Acid" or "Sodium Hydroxide")
Concentration if known
EPA waste code (D002 Corrosive)
Accumulation start date
Hazard warnings (Corrosive, Danger)
Generator information
Safety Equipment
Required near storage:
Eye wash station
Safety shower
Spill kit with neutralizing agents
Fire extinguisher (appropriate type)
Personal protective equipment
PPE for handling:
Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile, neoprene, butyl)
Safety goggles or face shield
Lab coat or chemical apron
Closed-toe shoes
Respirator if vapor hazard
Accumulation Time Limits
Don't exceed:
LQG: 90 days
SQG: 180 days (270 if disposal facility >200 miles)
VSQG: No specific limit but manage properly
Acid and Base Disposal Costs
Cost Factors:
Type of acid or base
Concentration and strength
Volume
Contamination (clean vs. contaminated)
Required disposal method
Transportation distance
Service frequency
Typical Pricing:
Common Acids:
Dilute sulfuric acid (<30%): $2-$5 per gallon
Concentrated sulfuric acid: $4-$10 per gallon
Hydrochloric acid: $3-$7 per gallon
Nitric acid: $5-$12 per gallon
Phosphoric acid: $3-$8 per gallon
Acetic acid: $4-$9 per gallon
Common Bases:
Sodium hydroxide: $3-$8 per gallon
Potassium hydroxide: $4-$9 per gallon
Ammonium hydroxide: $3-$7 per gallon
Specialty/Hazardous:
Hydrofluoric acid: $15-$35 per gallon
Chromic acid: $10-$25 per gallon
Mixed or contaminated acids/bases: $5-$15 per gallon
Lab Pack Services:
Acids lab pack (55-gallon drum): $1,000-$2,500
Bases lab pack (55-gallon drum): $1,000-$2,500
Multiple drums: Volume pricing
Bulk Service:
Tanker load (4,000-6,000 gallons): $1-$5 per gallon
Tank pump-out: $500-$2,000 plus disposal
Regular scheduled bulk service: Reduced rates
Container Service:
55-gallon drum pickup: $150-$400 (plus per-gallon rate)
IBC tote pickup: $300-$800 (plus per-gallon rate)
Minimum pickup charge: $150-$300
Neutralization:
On-site neutralization: $200-$800 per service
May reduce overall disposal costs significantly
Volume discounts available for regular service
Call (800) 582-4833 for accurate pricing for your acids and bases
Waste Minimization for Acids and Bases
Source Reduction
Reduce generation:
Use minimum quantities needed
Optimize processes to minimize waste
Substitute less hazardous alternatives when possible
Implement better process controls
Train staff on efficient use
Neutralization
Convert to non-hazardous:
Neutralize acids with bases (and vice versa)
Adjust pH to 5.0-11.0 range
May allow discharge if permitted
Significantly reduces disposal costs
Requirements for neutralization discharge:
Must have proper permits
Meet all discharge limits (not just pH)
Monitor and document
Consider professional assistance
Segregation
Keep waste streams separate:
Don't mix acids with other waste
Don't mix bases with other waste
Separate clean from contaminated
May reduce disposal costs
Prevents dangerous reactions
Recycling & Recovery
Some acids/bases can be recovered:
Acid regeneration (sulfuric, hydrochloric)
Caustic recovery systems
Distillation and purification
Reuse in less-critical applications
When feasible:
High volumes
Clean waste streams
Regular generation
Economic payback
Safety & Emergency Procedures
Handling Precautions
Safe handling practices:
Always add acid to water (never reverse)
Use proper PPE
Work in well-ventilated areas
Have neutralizing agents available
Keep incompatibles separate
Use appropriate containers
Never force liquid from containers
Spill Response
Small spills (<1 gallon):
Evacuate unnecessary personnel
Ventilate area
Wear proper PPE
Contain spill with absorbent
Neutralize carefully
Collect and dispose as hazardous waste
Clean area thoroughly
Large spills:
Evacuate area
Alert others to danger
Call for professional cleanup: (800) 582-4833
Prevent drain entry
Don't attempt cleanup without proper training/equipment
Neutralization agents:
For acid spills: Sodium bicarbonate, soda ash, lime
For base spills: Citric acid, sodium bisulfate
Commercial spill pillows
Never neutralize large spills rapidly (violent reaction)
Exposure Response
Skin contact:
Remove contaminated clothing immediately
Flush with water for 15+ minutes
Seek medical attention
Do NOT attempt to neutralize on skin
Eye contact:
Flush with water immediately for 15+ minutes
Hold eyelids open
Seek medical attention immediately
Continue flushing en route if possible
Inhalation:
Move to fresh air
Seek medical attention
Administer oxygen if trained
Ingestion:
Do NOT induce vomiting
Rinse mouth with water
Seek immediate medical attention
Do NOT give neutralizing agents orally
Fire Response
Acids and bases generally not flammable, but:
May react with combustibles
Oxidizing acids accelerate fires
Toxic fumes generated in fires
Use appropriate extinguisher
Evacuate and call fire department for large fires
Common Acid and Base Scenarios
Metal Finishing Shop
A chrome plating facility generates 400 gallons monthly of spent chromic acid, hydrochloric acid, and sodium hydroxide solutions. We provide monthly bulk pickup with tanker service and complete hazardous waste manifesting. Cost: $3,000-$6,000/month.
University Chemistry Department
A university generates 50 containers of various acids and bases quarterly from teaching and research labs. We provide quarterly lab pack service, properly segregating acids from bases with complete inventory and documentation. Cost: $2,500-$4,000/quarter.
Manufacturing Facility
An industrial facility has a 5,000-gallon tank of spent sulfuric acid (30%) that needs disposal during a process changeover. We provide tanker pump-out service and disposal. Cost: $10,000-$20,000.
Water Treatment Plant
A municipal water treatment plant generates 200 gallons monthly of spent acids and bases from pH adjustment processes. We provide monthly drum pickup service. Cost: $600-$1,200/month.
Pharmaceutical Manufacturer
A pharmaceutical facility generates 100 gallons weekly of various process acids and bases. We provide weekly bulk pickup with proper segregation and documentation. Cost: $2,000-$4,000/month.
Why Choose Us for Acid and Base Disposal
Safety Expertise
Over 30 years handling corrosive materials safely. We understand the hazards and proper handling techniques.
Complete Compliance
Full EPA, DOT, and state regulatory compliance. All manifests, documentation, and certificates provided.
Proper Segregation
We ensure acids and bases are never mixed and are properly segregated by type and compatibility.
Multiple Service Options
From lab pack to bulk tanker service, we scale to your needs.
Emergency Response
24/7 availability for spills, leaks, and urgent situations involving acids and bases.
Neutralization Consulting
We can help determine if neutralization is feasible and cost-effective for your operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I pour acids or bases down the drain? A: Generally no, unless you have specific permits and the material meets all discharge limits. Most acids and bases require proper disposal.
Q: What happens if I accidentally mix an acid and base? A: They react (neutralize) with heat generation and can splash or boil violently. Never intentionally mix without proper controls.
Q: Can acids and bases be neutralized before disposal? A: Yes, neutralization to pH 5.0-11.0 may allow discharge (if permitted) or reduce disposal costs. We can assist with this.
Q: How should I store acids and bases? A: In separate areas with secondary containment, proper ventilation, and appropriate containers. Never store acids and bases together.
Q: What's the most dangerous acid? A: Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is considered one of the most dangerous due to its ability to penetrate skin and cause severe, delayed damage to bones and tissues.
Q: Do I need special containers for acids? A: Yes, use chemically compatible containers. Polyethylene is generally suitable. Never use metal containers for acids unless specifically rated for that acid.
Q: What if I have old, unlabeled containers? A: We can help identify and characterize unknown acids or bases through testing before disposal.
Q: Can waste acids be recycled? A: Some acids (sulfuric, hydrochloric) can be regenerated and recycled in certain applications. We can discuss options.
Q: What's the minimum quantity you'll pick up? A: We can pick up any quantity, though minimum charges apply for small pickups. Typically minimum is one drum (55 gallons).
Q: How quickly can you respond to an emergency? A: We offer 24/7 emergency response and can typically be on-site within 2-4 hours for urgent situations.
Get Started with Acid and Base Disposal
Call (800) 582-4833 or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com
What to have ready:
Types of acids or bases requiring disposal
Concentrations if known
Approximate volumes
Current storage containers
Contamination information
Desired service frequency
Any emergency situations
We'll provide:
Free quote for your materials
Proper containers if needed
Waste characterization assistance
Pickup scheduling
All manifests and documentation
Disposal certificates
Neutralization consulting if applicable
Services available:
Lab pack services
Drum and tote pickup
Bulk tanker service
Tank pump-out
Emergency spill response
Waste characterization
Neutralization consulting
Regular scheduled service
Emergency service available 24/7
Serving businesses nationwide, since 1992 - expert acid and base disposal with complete safety and regulatory compliance
SAFETY WARNING: Acids and bases cause severe chemical burns and can react violently with incompatible materials. Always use proper protective equipment, maintain proper segregation, and seek professional disposal services. Never mix acids and bases. In case of exposure, flush with water and seek immediate medical attention.