EPA/625/R-99/008
You will need Adobe Reader to view some of the files on this page. See EPA's PDF page to learn more.
Approaching Zero Discharge in Surface Finishing, Capsule Report (PDF) (48 pp, 481 KB) November 2000
Abstract:
This document provides technical guidance to surface finishers, environmental
managers and decision makers on control technologies and process changes
for approaching zero discharge (AZD). AZD is one of the key themes underlying
the Strategic Goals Program (SGP), a cooperative effort among the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the American Electroplaters and
Surface Finishers Society, the National Association of Metal Finishers,
and the Metal Finishing Suppliers Association to test and promote innovative
ideas for improved environmental management within the metal finishing
industry. For more information on this program, see http://www.strategicgoals.org/
In its broadest sense, "zero discharge" means no discharge
to any media. More commonly, zero discharge focuses on zero wastewater
discharge. This report presents information and strategies for
approaching zero discharge for concentrated process fluids and
associated rinsewaters from surface finishing manufacturing. This
focus is intended to minimize discharges of spent and/or underused
process fluids. Specific SGP goals addressed in this report are:
- Improved use of process chemistry (SGP goal is 98% metals utilization on product);
- Water use reduction (SGP goal is 50% reduction); and
- Hazardous waste emissions reduction (SGP goal is 50% reduction in metals emissions to air and water, and 50% reduction in hazardous waste sludge disposal).
Contact:
Douglas Grosse
grosse.douglas@epa.gov