how are fluorescent tubes and energy saving lamps recycled?

There are a few methods which are used in the UK to recycle energy saving lamps and fluorescent tubes. We've shown below one of these methods:

1.	The lamps and tubes are pre-broken
2.	They are washed to remove contaminants
3.	A distiller is then used to extract the elemental mercury, which is reused, and phosphor powder.
4.	The glass, metals and plastics are broken down into smaller pieces
5.	These materials are then separated and sent onto other recycling plants for further recycling and turned into something new!

End products of light bulb and fluorescent tube recycling

Elemental Mercury

Distiller Phosphor Powder

Glass

Metals

Cardboard

Plastics