Adopting new processes can be challenging, especially in busy labs where time and resources are already stretched thin. Many laboratories face increasing demands, tight schedules and limited staff, making even small operational improvements feel difficult to implement.
Fortunately, there are straightforward solutions that can help labs operate more efficiently while reducing costs. One of the most effective strategies is managing solvents more intelligently by recovering and reusing them on-site rather than relying solely on procurement and disposal.
The following table outlines the key steps your team can follow to safely and efficiently recycle, recover and reuse valuable solvents:
Lab Efficiency Through Solvent Recycling
This recycling process occurs entirely in your laboratory, eliminating the need for other departments to supply solvents. By generating and reusing what you already have, you can effectively become Your Own Solvent Supplier™.
Key productivity benefits include:
- Time savings: On-site solvent recycling keeps your team focused on lab work rather than trips to storage, disposal sites, or other departments. Typical labor time to start a cycle is only 12–15 minutes, freeing staff to focus on core tasks.
- High efficiency: Up to 95% of used solvents can be recovered at high concentration, reducing the need to purchase new solvents and simplifying inventory management.
- Sustainability: Recycling minimizes destructive disposal, decreases your lab’s waste generator manifest by roughly 95% and supports environmentally responsible operations
Current State …
Traditionally, labs follow a multi-step process to manage solvents: after use, saturated solvents are collected, aggregated, stored and documented for disposal, often ending in incineration. Fresh solvents are then sourced, quality-checked, warehoused and delivered to work centers for use, creating multiple handling steps across departments and consuming valuable time and resources.
Future State ...
By recycling solvents directly in your lab, the process is streamlined and more efficient. Saturated solvents are collected, distilled and recovered for reuse, minimizing waste and reducing handling steps.
Typical results include:
- Up to 95% of solvent recovered at high concentration
- Approximately 15 minutes of labor to start each cycle, saving your team time and resources
- Significant reduction in solvent manifests, positively impacting your waste generator status and lowering environmental disposal impact
Take the Next Step Toward Streamlined Solvent Management
These benefits are practical and straightforward to implement. On-site solvent recycling provides a safe and efficient way for your team to save valuable time while reducing environmental impact. Simplifying solvent recycling starts with choosing the right system. Talk to an expert to see how a tailored solution can help your team maximize resources while minimizing environmental impact.
Check out these other helpful resources:
- Blog: The Simplicity of Solvent Recycling with Distillation Systems
Solvent recycling through distillation systems helps labs reduce waste and optimize resources without disrupting workflows. - Blog: How Solvent Recycling and Recovery Saves Time and Improves Workflow
Implementing solvent recycling can streamline operations and ease the strain on limited lab resources. - Blog: What’s Really Going Up the Stack? The Hidden Impact of Solvent Incineration
Incinerating solvents may seem simple, but it carries significant environmental and operational costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need special training to use a solvent recycler?
A: Modern systems feature intuitive control panels and automated processes, allowing operators to manage recycling with minimal training. CBG Biotech’s expert technicians can also provide on-site start-up and hands-on operational training for teams.
Q: Can the system integrate into existing lab workflows?
A: Yes. Well-designed systems are built for seamless integration, often with plug-and-play installation and minimal oversight required, ensuring recycling does not disrupt your daily lab operations.
Q: How do I choose the right solvent recycling system for my lab?
A: The best system aligns with your lab’s workflow, volume and solvent types. Tailored solutions like PathTrue support labs by optimizing efficiency, compliance and sustainability.
Q: How does solvent recycling benefit lab operations?
A: Recycling reduces procurement and disposal steps, reclaims up to 95% of valuable solvents and streamlines workflows. This leads to significant time and cost savings while allowing staff to focus on core lab tasks, by staying right in your lab.
Q: Will a solvent recycler require additional space in the lab?
A: No. Systems like PathTrue are designed with a compact footprint to maximize space efficiency while providing effective solvent recovery. Several PathTrue Systems are on wheels as well, making them mobile to support changing needs and adapting to the workflows of your laboratory.
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