[Greenbuilding] Lead contamination in older porcelainest, Vol 11, Issue 41

[JAY WALSH]

The threat of lead contamination from older porcelain, and porcelain fixtures,
including bathtubs, is quite real. Lead containing glazes have been used in
the production of porcelain for decades. EPA took lead out of enamel about 15
years ago, If the porcelain surface is damaged, due to drain cleaners, chips,
or erosion, lead can leach from the surface, and poison the people who ingest
it.

The lead concern also applies to porcelain tiles and pottery. I mention this
because I see projects and popular DYI shows using old broken up tiles and
pottery for kitchen counter surfaces and other mosaic type projects in baths
and showers. If you plan on doing a project like this you can purchase a
simple Lead Test Kit at your hardware store and test the pieces before you
use. 

Sincerely

Jay Walsh

> Message: 4
> Date: Thu, 31 May 2007 00:45:57 -0700
> From: Justin Close <justinclose at comcast.net>
> Subject: [Greenbuilding] Recycling old porcelain
> To: greenbuilding at listserv.repp.org
> Message-ID: <465E7D35.3050801 at comcast.net>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed
> 
> Does anyone know of any resources for reuse or recycling an old 
> porcelain toilet?
> 
> It is old (from the 50's according to the stamp on the lid).  It 
> functions.  It isn't leaky or broken.  (We recently replaced it with a 
> new model, chosen with the help of the Canadian/Californian toilet study 
> results that were mentioned on this list a while ago.  The wife thinks I 
> am geeky for finding and using such a thing, but it flushes great!  :))
> 
> I remember reading or visiting a website about a place in Texas that is 
> using old porcelain as an additive to an epoxy mass to create 
> counters/floors, etc.  I don't know how much shipping something like 
> this might be, though.  If there is anyone local that would be easier 
> (Salem, OR, USA). 
> 
> Thanks,
> Justin
> 
> 
>