Oct. 2, 2007 Dow Corning is set to install a new recycling system at its Midland, Mich., plant that would enable the facility to turn its hazardous waste into materials needed for chemical manufacturing.

The company has contracted with Integrated Environmental Technologies and Veolia Environmental Services to install the nation's first "plasma-based gasification process" to recycle hazardous waste. The process transforms hazardous chlorinated organic liquids into aqueous hydrochloric acid and clean synthesis gas products Dow Corning would otherwise have to purchase for its manufacturing operations.

The project will remove the need for off-site transportation and incineration of hazardous waste, Dow says.

"We realize the best way to advance our vision of sustainability is through eagerness to change and a willingness to invest in the best technology available," says Peter Cartwright, Dow Corning executive director for environment, health and safety. "This is an opportunity for Dow Corning to implement this innovative and environmentally sound manufacturing technology and also see if it has application in our other facilities."