Glycerin Traders operated as a waste-materials refining and processing facility between 2010 and 2024. The facility historically received waste oils, acids, flammables, solvents, and unknown materials to be processed into usable products. Indiana Department of Emergency Management (IDEM) found Glycerin Traders in violation of numerous Resource Conservation and Recovery Act waste management practices. IDEM requested EPA assistance to assess whether the site met the criteria for a time-critical removal action from the agency in April 2025.
More than 700 containers of liquid waste are stored at the property, the contents of which are unknown. Labels on some containers indicated the potential presence of hydrochloric acid, organic peroxides, and potassium nitrate. Containers of acids, oxidizers, and flammable oxidizers were observed on pallets. Many containers of hazardous chemicals are in poor condition, open, corroded, or bulging. The improper storage of the chemicals could result in a release of hazardous substances into the environment or a fire, leading to EPA’s swift action to remove the immediate threat to public health and the environment.
EPA will identify the waste and consolidate, package and remove any hazardous substances off-site for proper and safe disposal. Air monitoring will be conducted during the cleanup to ensure cleanup activities on-site do not impact air quality off-site. Nearby residents may notice increased vehicle activity in the area and workers in personal protective equipment. EPA estimates the work to remove hazardous waste will be completed this fall, weather dependent.
