Proposal for the final disposition of the residual of coal tar generated in the pharmaceutical industry

Abstract

The coal tar residue is formed by the accumulated sediments of the preparation of the Picis Carbonis liquor, an ingredient of the Brea Shampoo pharmaceutical product. This waste was accumulated for years without a final management option being applied for it. The objective of this work was to propose alternatives for the final disposal of coal tar residue.  The physical-chemical and microbiological characterization was carried out, using established methods and from the obtained results were analyzed as possible alternatives of disposition: the bioremediation, the incorporation in asphaltic cements and the mixture to heavy fuels (national crude oil and fuel oil). The results showed that it is feasible to dose and mix the waste with heavy fuels, being the best variant the mixture with national crude in the proportions 1, 3, 5 and 10%. It was proposed to apply this variant in existing facilities, which is environmentally acceptable taking into account the concentration values of metals present in it. On the other hand, it was shown that the other two alternatives evaluated were not viable. The measures to be complied were recommended for the storage, transportation and safe disposal of this dangerous waste that includes its energy use.  The technical and environmental feasibility of this residual mixed with fuel was manifested, as well as the importance of the safe disposal of a hazardous waste and the need to comply with its proper handling.