RCRA Hazardous Waste (US, 40 CFR 261)
Used antifreeze may be hazardous if it contains lead or exhibits toxicity characteristics. Many modern coolants are not RCRA hazardous, but used automotive coolant is often assumed hazardous and characterized.
Also searched as: engine coolant, glycol coolant, vehicle coolant, radiator fluid
RCRA classifies waste by source, process, and characteristics — not just material. Pick the row that matches how your antifreeze & coolant arises; each coded row links to the full waste code definition under 40 CFR Part 261.
Antifreeze with lead (above 5.0 mg/L TCLP)
Toxicity characteristic waste - Lead at or above 5.0 mg/L (TCLP)
Antifreeze with other heavy metals
Toxicity characteristic waste - Cadmium at or above 1.0 mg/L (TCLP)
Modern lead-free antifreeze
May not be RCRA hazardous but verify TCLP
Source: 40 CFR Part 261 — Identification and Listing of Hazardous Waste
Shipping to the EU?
See the EWC code for antifreeze & coolant.
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