Spent lead-acid batteries are environmentally hazardous toxic wastes. In fact, lead is a hazardous metal that in the form of lead oxide undergoes certain reactions that transform it into salts or other soluble compounds that are dangerous and easily dispersed in the environment.
Sulfuric acid, on the other hand, also contained in lead-acid batteries, is a highly corrosive compound that damages any material with which it comes in contact. It causes even severe burns on contact with the skin, is dangerous by ingestion and inhalation, corrodes fabrics and other clothing and protective materials, and is capable of acidifying large reservoirs or water sources.
Transportation of spent lead-acid batteries
The transport of lead acid battery waste must be assigned to a person authorized to transport hazardous waste (Cat.5 ANGA) and carried out in accordance with ADR regulations.
The producer of the waste, is therefore obliged to properly package the batteries in suitable leak-proof, electrolyte-resistant covered bins or transported in closed vehicles or closed containers.
The 'packaging shall be labeled with: the EWC code, black R on a yellow background, UN number 2794, ADR corrosive matter and environmentally hazardous matter labels.
Treatment of spent lead-acid batteries
The plants relied on by the SINAB Consortium use a process that involves the recovery of nearly 100 percent of the lead and has specific steps including:
- the crushing of batteries with separation of the metal and plastic parts and sending the aqueous sulfuric acid solution to neutralization;
- the melting of the crayon with reduction from sulfate and lead oxide to lead metal through the addition of reagents such as iron;
- refining with removal of metals (tin, antimony, etc.) to obtain refined lead.
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