How to choose industrial absorbents: oils, chemicals or universal?

The right absorbent depends on the liquid: for oils and hydrocarbons you need an "oil-only" product, for acids and chemicals one suited to chemicals, and for spills of uncertain nature a universal one. For occasional use a ready-made kit is enough; for a workshop or a warehouse with frequent spills you need a stock of pads and rolls, plus granular absorbent for large stains. In the collection the kits absorb from a few litres up to 165 litres.

The types

• Absorbent pads and rolls: in meltblown polypropylene, for stains and small spills. The roll is cut to size, like the Portwest SM15 maintenance roll.
• Absorbent pillows: they are placed under leaks or around machines and hold larger volumes than a pad.
• Absorbent socks and booms: long format, to surround the spill and stop it spreading.
• Granular absorbent: clay or other minerals, for floors and rough surfaces, such as Faren 626 or the Eco Absorber clay.
• Sawdust and absorbent powders: plant-based or mineral material (dust-free wood, vermiculite) for stains on the floor.
• Neutralising absorbents: for aggressive substances; always read what they neutralise.
• Emergency spill kits: a pack with pads, pillows, barriers and disposal bags, also on a trolley, such as the Portwest SM31 50-litre maintenance kit or the Comi Storage wheeled kits.

How to choose according to the job

As for colour, look at the label: grey products are generally universal, yellow ones are for chemicals, white ones for oils, but the product data sheet is always the source to check.

The features to look at

• Absorption capacity: in the collection from 5 to 165 litres per kit; per pack it reaches 460-1,220 litres. Choose according to the maximum volume that can come out of a leak.
• Material: meltblown polypropylene (pads, pillows), recycled fibres, clay, vermiculite, dust-free wood. It changes what it absorbs and how it is disposed of.
• Dimensions and length: lengths range from 1.2 m to 30-40 m; in general the short ones are for socks and barriers, the long ones for rolls. Choose the shape according to the point where a spill can occur.
• Colour: white, grey or yellow, useful for recognising the type.
• Standards: some kits state BS 7959 (parts 1, 2 and 3); it is useful if your customer or your emergency plan requires it.
• Packaging: pieces per carton and box capacity, for organising your stock.

Common mistakes

• Using an oil-only product on a chemical or on water: it does not absorb, and the spill spreads.
• Keeping the kit away from the risk point. If you have to look for it, the spill spreads in the meantime.
• Forgetting the drain. It must be covered straight away, before laying down the absorbents.
• Laying the absorbents from the centre outwards. First you surround the stain, then you work from the outside towards the centre.
• Disposing of it as ordinary waste. Used absorbent is waste and must be disposed of according to the substance absorbed.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between universal and oil-only absorbent?

Universal absorbs oils, water and many chemicals. Oil-only absorbs only oils and hydrocarbons and leaves water alone: it suits workshop leaks and outdoor areas exposed to rain.

How much absorbent should I keep?

As much as can come out of a leak at the most critical point. The figure that matters is the absorption capacity in litres.

Can I use sawdust?

Yes, for oils and non-aggressive liquids on a floor. With aggressive chemicals choose a suitable product and check compatibility on the data sheet.

How is used absorbent disposed of?

It is collected in closed containers and disposed of as waste, according to the substance absorbed.

All the products are in the industrial absorbents and sawdust collection: for a kit tailored to your department, request a quote from the AMES technicians.