Re: B/R Recycler odor
Tom,
We have a CBG recycler and have the same "fishy"
odor. I called CBG and they provided literature for me to explain the odor:
"results from the formation of amines which may
occur when formalin reacting with small quantities of nitrogen, present in
tissue, is heated under slightly alkaline conditions, i.e. pH>7.2. Amines are
volatile and some may stay with your solvent. Even though they are present in
minute amounts, they really smell".
To remedy this, CBG recommends adding a small
volume (a few drops to 0.2 ml) of acid to the waste in the fill container before
recycling. Glacial Acetic acid is preferred, formic acid is okay, a sprinkle of
citric acid is also acceptable. Do NOT use Sulfuric acid, Nitric acid,
Hydrochloric acid or other corrosive acids. The acid will lower the pH of the
waste solvent so that any nitrogen present will not form amines.
Hope this helps.
Paula Lucas
Lab Manager
BioPath Medical Group
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Sunday, June 08, 2003 1:03 PM
Subject: B/R Recycler odor
Dear Netters,
We have a B/R Instruments
Recycler. It recycles xylene and alcohol. Our recycled xylene has
a fishy odor ever since day one of using it. B/R said it is normal to
have this ammine smell. However, I have spoken with other labs that do
not have this odor issue. My question is: If you own a recycler
(B/R OR CBG) are you noticing a fishy odor when you recycle your alcohol
and/or xylene? Your response is appreciated.
Thanks again,
Tom Galati
Laboratory Director
HSRL- A GLP Compliant Laboratory
137 South Main Street
Woodstock, Virginia 22664
(540)459-8211
Fax: (540)459-8217
tomgalati@hsrl.org
www.hsrl.org
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