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Friday, October 17, 2008
New Explosion Hazard - Used Copier Toner Cartridges
A report in Japan's The Daily Yomiuri brings to light a new explosion hazard. Recycling facilities in Japan have been experiencing explosions as copy machine toner cartridges are processed. The article reports that:
"Two explosions that occurred earlier this year at recycling plants in Kanagawa Prefecture were found to have been caused by photocopier toner particles that chemically reacted with oxygen in the air, according to police. In the technological competition to achieve clearer printing, manufacturers are developing finer toner particles, increasing the risk of dust-induced explosions. "
Leftover toner in old cartridges mixes with air, reacting with the oxygen to create an explosive mixture.
Read the complete article: Copy Toner Explosions
"Two explosions that occurred earlier this year at recycling plants in Kanagawa Prefecture were found to have been caused by photocopier toner particles that chemically reacted with oxygen in the air, according to police. In the technological competition to achieve clearer printing, manufacturers are developing finer toner particles, increasing the risk of dust-induced explosions. "
Leftover toner in old cartridges mixes with air, reacting with the oxygen to create an explosive mixture.
Read the complete article: Copy Toner Explosions
posted by Steve Hudgik |
Workplace Safety Post 2 Comments |
2 Comments:
Great post. I didn't know there was a combustible dust problem with toner until know.
We recycle them and give you a $3 credit towards your purchase for each cartridge you return. We take both ink jet and laser cartridges. We will re manufacture the used cartridge and resell it. Staples also has a program similar to the one at OfficeMax.
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