Rechargeable & non-rechargeable batteries, cell phones or cell phone batteries recycled
Georgia Tech Battery Recycling Locations
1. Student Center Information Desk
2. Student Center Commons - Burdell's Bookstore (Cashier Counter)
3. Library – Security Desk
4. Campus Recreation Center – ORGT – Outdoor Recreation at Georgia Tech
(Back of CRC, lower lever, near volleyball )
5. Barnes & Noble @Tech Square (Book Cashier Counter)
Use Rechargeable batteries
They can be recharged up to 1000 times!
All batteries can, and should be, recycled. Those with the 'three chasing arrows" symbol must be. Improper disposal of batteries can lead to contamination of soil and ground water.
Departments who would like to set up there own collection activities should contact EH&S at 404-894-6224 or ed.pozniak@ehs.gatech.edu. EH&S will provide the supplies and instructions to do so safely and legally.
MOST RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES can be recharged up to 1,000 times, but when they no longer hold a charge, recycle them. Using rechargeable batteries, and then recycling them when they can no longer be recharged, is a “best practices” and recommended for Georgia Tech.
Small batteries include:
Alkaline and Zinc-Carbon Batteries: Alkaline batteries are the everyday household batteries used in flashlights, remote controls, back up power for telephones, and other appliances. Some of the newer versions are actually rechargeable.
Button-Cell Batteries: Small, round batteries found in items such as watches and hearing aids contain mercury, silver, cadmium, lithium or other toxic metals.
Non-alkaline, "Rechargeable" Batteries: These batteries are widely used in cell-phones, two-way radios, cordless power tools, and portable (laptop) computers. They include Nickel-Cadmium, Metal Hydride, and Lithium Ion batteries. These batteries, especiially the older technology NiCads, are especially prone to dangerous discharge. They should not be stacked without some means (tape over terminals or plastic baggies) of keeping two batteries from coming in contact with each other.
Large Batteries include:
Large lead-acid batteries are most recognizable as being used in automobiles and other like machinery. At Georgia Tech they may also be found as primary power sources for equipment and back up for computer systems. All batteries, even "dead" ones hold a charge - don't short the terminals. These batteries contain sulfuric acid which can cause severe burns. If the battery is ruptured are shows evidence of leaking, contact EH&S for removal.
Disposal. Some providers of this type battery provide an exchange service - they'll take the old battery away for proper disposal when they supply its replacement. This is probably the easiest and most cost effective method of disposal. When a battery is taken out of service attach a tag (shoe tag or stick-on label) noted with "out of service" and the date. If not using a supplier who exchanges batteries contact EH&S (4-6224) for pick-up.
Sealed lead-acid batteries are used in emergency lighting in UPS's (Uninterrupted Power Sources) and other computer support equipment. While they are not as prone to leakage as full sized
lead-acid batteries, the can rupture, excercise caution if the battery appears swollen.
Disposal: Many companies who sell UPS's will ship replacement batteries complete with packaging and pre-paid shipping. Simply follow the directions of the supplier to return the item. If not using this type service, tag the battery with an "out of service" date and contact EH&S for pick-up and recycling.
Questions? contact EH&S at 404-894-6224 or ed.pozniak@ehs.gatech.edu.
Info for Battery Recycling Locations Personnel