Why recycle my spent carbon?

Reactivation is a sound “disposal” alternative for hazardous and non-hazardous spent carbons.  Environmental concerns, changing regulations and increasing costs associated with virgin-grade carbons are among the key drivers shifting generators towards reactivation rather than traditional disposal methods, such as landfilling. Reactivation is generally considered less expensive than other forms of spent carbon disposal and is also considered more environmentally sound. Most importantly, reactivation ends the responsibility or “chain of custody” of the waste producer, thereby eliminating concerns of future liability.

Carbon Profiling - the first step towards reactivation

A spent carbon profile is required to ensure that the spent carbon is safely recycled in compliance with Federal, State and local regulations. Before Siemens Water Technologies can accept spent carbon for recycling, the media has to be characterized as either hazardous or non-hazardous. The generator submits a completed Spent Carbon Profile form (download forms on right)accompanied by a sample of the spent carbon. Siemens can provide assistance with proper sampling of the spent carbon or can also provide instructions for doing so using site personnel. Once the spent carbon is returned to Siemens, it is analyzed to complete the profiling process.  The cost for profiling is dependent on whether the spent carbon is determined to be non-hazardous or hazardous.

Since the spent carbon profiling and analysis process takes time, many customers prefer to complete it in advance. If approved, a spent carbon approval number is issued and filed. Pre-approval improves the subsequent response time for reactivation and carbon exchange services, thereby minimizing any delays or downtime in returning the system to operation.

Once the profile is completed and approved, Siemens offers carbon reactivation services from three U.S. reactivation facilities.   We are the only provider in the industry with facilities serving both the East and West coasts and permitted to handle RCRA hazardous spent carbon.  We also operate a network of carbon service branches across the country, putting us within close proximity to our customer base. Our branches are fully stocked with carbon, equipment, trucks, all of which are company owned. This gives us the ability to mobilize resources quickly to address customer needs.  In addition to spent carbon profiling and reactivation, Siemens can assist with spent carbon removal and packaging, non-hazardous and/or hazardous waste handling/transportation to our reactivation plant or a hazardous waste reactivation plant, vessel inspection with minor repair, vessel reloading with reactivated carbon.




Learn more about our spent carbon reactivation service