How Do I Dispose of Potassium Permanganate?
Potassium permanganate has many uses. Movie and theater professionals oxidize metal props with it to give them an “ancient” look; health professionals use it as a disinfectant; and aquaculturalists add it to water to remove fungus, parasites and bacteria. Proper disposal is vital, however, because potassium permanganate can cause many health and environmental problems if not handled correctly.Proper StorageKeep potassium permanganate in a tightly closed container and store in a cool, dry and ventilated area away from any heat source. Do not store on wood floors or near combustibles or other oxidizable materials.Proper DisposalHandle potassium permanganate as hazardous waste, and send it to a Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)-approved waste facility for disposal. Follow all state and local laws, which may have additional stipulations beyond federal regulations. To find statutes in your area and to find an RCRA-approved waste facility near you, visit EPA.gov for a list of all
