The Lifecycle of Old and Defunct Laboratory Instruments
Lab instruments play a crucial role in scientific research and education, often contributing significantly to the advancement of knowledge. However, once their usefulness wanes, these instruments face a complex lifecycle, ranging from surplus disposal to potential reuse. This article explores how old and defunct laboratory instruments are managed by universities and other institutions, and how they can be repurposed for continued use.
Surplus Disposal Practices in Universities
When laboratory instruments become surplus, they are typically managed by the University surplus department. These instruments, despite historically being acquired with grants, remain the property of the university. Schools often have different strategies for dealing with these instruments. Some institutions allow the Principal Investigator (PI) to trade in old equipment for new models, requiring prior permission. However, this is not a universal practice, and many universities opt for more traditional disposal methods.
Some common practices include junking or recycling, which can be inefficient due to the extensive paperwork required. Other times, these instruments sit unused in the basement due to bureaucratic hurdles. Occasionally, they might find a second life on eBay or as part of a larger initiative to donate to educational institutions.
Donation and Repurposing
Several universities have implemented initiatives where old equipment is refurbished and donated to high schools and other educational institutions. For instance, one university created a traveling loan program, where equipment is loaned to high schools for a set period, after which it is picked up and sent to a different location. This model offers a flexible solution for schools that might otherwise lack the means to purchase new equipment. Universities engage in these programs to extend the useful life of their assets and foster educational opportunities.
Other organizations, such as large firms, follow a regular trade-in model, refreshing their equipment inventory with newer models. Old equipment is refurbished by manufacturers and sold to institutions with more modest budgets. This practice is not only financially beneficial but also helps in promoting the longevity and sustainability of scientific equipment.
Organizational Practices and Challenges
The lifecycle of laboratory instruments can also vary based on the organization. Some large firms trade in their equipment regularly, renovating the old machines and selling them to other institutions. In contrast, universities and smaller companies may use equipment until it is completely worn out and then retain it for spare parts. Occasionally, a company may donate old equipment to schools or charitable organizations that might find it useful.
A significant issue in the management of laboratory instruments is the tendency to purchase new equipment that is often left unused or stored away, only to be discarded after a few years. This wastage is particularly frustrating when valuable equipment is close at hand but inaccessible due to bureaucratic restrictions or a “dog-in-the-manger” mentality within the scientific community. Despite this, many researchers rely on their ingenuity and resourcefulness to repurpose or identify underutilized instruments.
My experience as a scavenger scientist highlights the potential for repurposing equipment. Approximately half of the instruments in my lab have been acquired through scavenging, with a keen eye for value and utility. This approach not only saves costs but also contributes to the efficient use of resources within the scientific community.
Conclusion
The lifecycle of old and defunct laboratory instruments is a multifaceted challenge that requires a combination of strategic planning, resourcefulness, and innovative approaches to maximize their utility. Universities, organizations, and individual researchers can all contribute to sustainability in the scientific equipment ecosystem. By exploring creative solutions and fostering a culture of share and reuse, we can ensure that these valuable assets continue to support scientific progress and education.