Layers of Packaging: How Many Are Really Needed?

A study conducted at the University of Minnesota by a team of researchers found that common cardboard packages for fluorescent lamps do not contain mercury vapor below permissible workplace exposure levels, as defined by state and federal authorities.

The study tested packaging configurations that enhance this single cardboard layer with a plastic bag, as well as packages that add a second layer of cardboard to the design—with the bags positioned between the two cardboard layers. The latter group contained two package varieties: a double-box with a thicker, tape-sealed plastic bag, and a double box with a foil-plastic laminate bag containing a zip closure. Both of these packages performed better than the other configurations. Yet, only the double box with the foil-plastic laminate bag delivered the necessary levels of protection.

This study indicates that all three layers of the last packaging configuration are critical in the effective containment of mercury vapor. The first cardboard layer provides structure to the configuration and protects contents from outside elements. The bag—which should feature a suitable material and tight seal—contains the mercury vapor, and the inner layer of cardboard prevents broken glass from puncturing the bag and rendering it ineffective.

Brad Buscher
Chairman and CEO
VaporLok Products LLC

Incandescent Lamps Vs. Fluorescent Lamps

We’ve all heard by now that fluorescent lamps are considered to be the better option when it comes to lighting choices, but why? Well for starters, fluorescent lamps are four to six times more efficient than incandescent lamps, which in turn reduces the power demand from local utilities. Since most power stations use coal as a source for electrical generation, they are large emitters of both greenhouse gas and mercury, which is naturally occurring in most coal that is used today. The reduced demand for electricity in turn reduces both greenhouse gas and mercury emissions.

Although incandescent light bulbs may seem like the cheaper option at the counter, consumers will actually save money on CFLs in the long run. While a CFL may cost about $2.00 per bulb, compared to about $0.50 cents for an incandescent bulb, a CFL is four to six times more efficient than an incandescent and lasts an estimated 8 to 15 times as long as an incandescent.

Brad Buscher
Chairman and CEO
VaporLok Products LLC

Banning Elemental Mercury

A new government regulation that goes into effect in 2013 effectively bans the exportation of elemental mercury—unless it has a legitimate use. The Mercury Export Ban Act of 2008, introduced by Barack Obama when he was an Illinois senator, was signed on October 14, 2008. The act will prohibit the transfer of elemental mercury by federal agencies, ban U.S. export of elemental mercury by 2013, and requires the Department of Energy to designate and manage an elemental mercury long-term disposal facility.

The United States is currently one of the world’s leading exporters of elemental mercury, and large amounts of mercury-containing waste have been shipped over the border to Canada and other countries. The Mercury Export Ban Act of 2008 will help prevent other industries and countries that do not have the same protections as we do from receiving the mercury and letting it proliferate right back into the system and the environment.

Brad Buscher
Chairman and CEO
VaporLok Products LLC

Packaging Used or Broken Fluorescent Bulbs

How do you effectively package used or broken fluorescent bulbs to prevent hazardous mercury vapor from emitting into your home or office? Is there a right or wrong way? Before you think about simply throwing that old bulb in the trash, read this post!

According to research studies, three layers of packaging are needed to sufficiently contain mercury vapor found in fluorescent lamps. The first is a cardboard layer, which provides structure to the configuration and protects contents from outside elements. The second layer consists of a bag—which should feature a suitable material and tight seal—which is used to contain the mercury vapor. The last, inner layer is also cardboard, which prevents broken glass from puncturing the bag and rendering it ineffective.

Next time you have a broken or burned out fluorescent bulb, use the above method to ensure you aren’t harming yourself or others with mercury vapor.

Brad Buscher
Chairman and CEO
VaporLok Products LLC

Fluorescent Lamp Recycling – Not a Common Act for Consumers

With incandescent lamps out and energy-efficient fluorescent lamps and CFLs in, it is important for consumers to understand all factors of using them; from the initial purchase to proper disposal procedures. Fluorescent lamps and CFLs are a more sustainable lighting option, providing four to six times more efficiency than their incandescent counterparts and emitting about the same amount of visible light, all while offering longer working life and saving significant energy costs. Although incandescent light bulbs may seem like the cheaper option at the counter, consumers will actually save money on CFLs in the long run since they last an estimated 8 to 15 times as long as an incandescent.

When it comes to proper disposal, we are falling short. The EPA estimates recycling rates of fluorescent lamps at only 20 to 25 percent, leaving the majority to be placed in dumpsters and eventually end up in landfills. The consumer recycling rate has been estimated to be even lower—possibly at less than 2 percent. Due to their mercury content, this is a serious concern for the health of not only our environment but also for ourselves.

To learn about recycling options, read our post: How Can You Easily Recycle Used Fluorescent Bulbs?

Brad Buscher
Chairman and CEO
VaporLok Products LLC