An IBC that appears empty can still contain residual liquid, sludge or hazardous contamination in the bottle or around the valve. We consider the previous contents and the condition of the complete container before confirming the appropriate outcome.
IBC Recycling
IBC recycling for used intermediate bulk containers whose previous contents and condition allow a suitable recovery process.
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Previous contents and residue
Residue and contamination can affect whether an IBC is suitable for reconditioning or recycling.
Condition of the complete IBC
The bottle, valve, cage and base all affect safe handling and potential reuse.
Bottle, cage, pallet and valve
The plastic bottle, outer cage, base and valve form one package. Damage to any of them can affect safe movement. Part-filled IBCs contain waste product as well as contaminated packaging, and both need to be described accordingly.
Contact us about IBC recycling
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Reconditioning and material recovery
Reconditioning aims to return a suitable IBC to use after an appropriate cleaning and inspection process. Material recovery involves separating and processing the components. These are different outcomes, and both depend on the receiving facility accepting the previous contents and current condition.
Cleaning and future use
Unknown chemical residue should not be washed into site drainage. A rinsed container is also not automatically suitable for storing water or another product. Future use has to be supported by the receiving process and the container’s history, not its outward appearance.
IBC Recycling: common questions
Can any empty IBC be reused for water?
No. Previous contents and the cleaning process must support the intended use; a simple rinse does not establish suitability.
Will every IBC be recycled?
No. Condition, contamination and the receiving process determine whether reuse, material recovery or another treatment is appropriate.
Should I wash an IBC before collection?
Do not wash unknown residues into drainage. Any cleaning must be agreed with management of the resulting contaminated liquid.
Is reconditioning the same as recycling the plastic?
No. Reconditioning seeks suitable reuse, while material recycling treats the separated materials.
Can a damaged cage affect collection?
Yes. The whole package must remain suitable for safe movement.