Wastewater treatment in the PCB and semi-conductor industry

[ywcheng]

Dear all:
This is more like regulatory questions. I wonder if anyone has idea how EPA regulate wastewater treatment in PCB and semi-conductor industry. These foundries use different chemicals in various manufacturing processes and result to many wastewater streams. They may contain acids, metals, and other toxic materials. Concentration and flowrate of each streams are also quite different. In the meantime, some wastes are collected, stored, transported, treated/disposed, and even recycled.
Does EPA set rules on which streams should go to wastewater treatment or be treated separately?

My understanding is that wastes, such as wasted concentrated acids, can be recycled and reused. They are considered as industrial wastes. Is this correct? Are there any rules or recommendations to separate particular streams in order to reduce trace pollutants in the treated wastewater? Are the separated wastewater considered as industrial wastes?

Thanks!

 

[bimr]

These are technology-based limitations on pollutant discharges promulgated by USEPA in accordance with Section 307 of the Clean Water Act that apply to specified process wastewaters of particular industrial categories (see 40 CFR 403.6 and 40 CFR Parts 405 to 471).

Electrical & Electronic is the one category that you want to obtain. 40 CFR 469 Semiconductor. Regulated Pollutants are As, Cd, Cr, F, P, Mn, TTO, and Oil and Grease