Chemical Compatibility

Incompatible waste must not be placed in the same container.  The most common compatibility issues that EHS sees at MSU are the mixing of inorganic acids and bases, and mixing any combination of oxidizers, inorganic acids, and organics.  Keep your waste streams separate if unsure of compatibility or contact the EHS Hazardous Waste staff for guidance. 

Accidental mixing of one hazardous waste with another may result in a dangerous exothermic chemical reaction. Generation of toxic gases, heat, possible overflow or rupturing of receptacles, fire, and even explosions are possible consequences of such reactions.

The Chemical Compatibility Chart (PDF) shows chemical combinations believed to be dangerously reactive in the case of accidental mixing. The chart provides a broad grouping of chemicals with an extensive variety of possible binary combinations.