Supporting Sustainable Operations: Minimizing Waste & Maximizing Impact

Environmental responsibility and sustainability is integrated into how we operate all of our global laboratories every day. From how samples are tested and stored to how materials are recovered and recycled, our laboratory processes are intentionally designed to minimize waste, conserve resources, and support sustainability. At the same time, our testing and analysis insights help customers extend equipment life and reduce unnecessary energy and material consumption.

A Testing Process Designed to Minimize Waste

Our fluid testing workflow is built to ensure responsible use of materials at every stage. Each sample received in our laboratories follows a carefully controlled lifecycle designed to maximize value while lowering its environmental impact.

Once a sample is received, testing and data analysis is completed timely and results are shared with the customer. Fluid samples are then stored for 30 days, allowing for additional verification or follow‑up testing if needed. After this holding period, remaining fluids are disposed of through designated waste streams and prepared for proper recycling.

Then, certified third‑party collection firms remove fluids from our facilities, ensuring safe handling and regulatory compliance. These recovered fluids are recycled into non‑virgin products, including asphalt, and in some cases processed into high‑purity Group II+ base oil or diesel fuel additives. This closed‑loop approach keeps valuable resources in use and out of landfills.

To support sustainability beyond the laboratory, testing kits are shipped to customers in recyclable packaging. We lower material use and support a sustainable supply chain through re-usable, returnable vendor packaging

Measurable Environmental Impact

Our commitment to sustainability yields real, measurable results:

  • 118,000+ pounds of waste recycled annually, keeping hazardous materials out of landfills
  • 15,000+ gallons of oil recycled annually through responsible fluid recovery
  • 2+ tons of cardboard saved each year by reducing single‑use packaging
  • 180+ trees saved per year through responsible recycling

These results represent ongoing progress toward reducing waste across our operations while helping customers move closer to their own sustainability goals.

Extending Equipment Life = Reducing Environmental Impact

Environmental responsibility goes beyond recycling; it also means using resources more efficiently. Through delivering accurate, reliable and timely fluid analysis results powered by data‑driven insights, we help customers optimize oil drain intervals, reduce unnecessary fluid changes, and avoid premature component failures.

For maintenance activities, longer equipment life =less oil consumption, fewer replacements, reduced energy use, and lower emissions. By optimizing maintenance decisions, customers not only improve reliability and cost control but also lower their overall environmental footprint.

At POLARIS Laboratories®, virtually all materials used during the testing process—including samples, packaging, and laboratory supplies—are recycled. By combining responsible laboratory practices with intelligent maintenance insights, we are proud to support a more sustainable future for our customers and the industries we serve.

Published March 31, 2026

Turbidity Testing for Data Center Cooling Fluids

POLARIS Laboratories® has expanded its testing capabilities with the addition of turbidity analysis—an important diagnostic tool for maintaining the health and performance of aqueous cooling systems in data center environments.

Turbidity testing measures the clarity of a fluid, providing a highly sensitive indication of contamination that may not yet be visible through traditional inspection or standard testing methods. Reported in Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU), this test detects suspended particles that can contribute to fouling, reduced heat transfer efficiency, or system reliability concerns. With a detection range from <0.01 NTU up to 600 NTU, turbidity will offer precise insight into even minimal changes in fluid condition.

When Will Turbidity Testing Apply?
Turbidity testing is specifically available for data center cooling fluids. It is most valuable when confirming suspected contamination in aqueous systems; particularly when cloudiness, filtration challenges, or performance concerns arise.

Applicable Sample Types
This test applies exclusively to aqueous fluids, such as those used in data center cooling systems. Submitting the correct sample type will ensure accurate and meaningful results.

Test Availability
Because of its specialized application, turbidity testing is offered as a standalone test and can be requested when conditions warrant additional investigation into fluid clarity and contamination.

Reporting & Results
Test results will be clearly reported in NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units), making it easy to interpret and trend over time. This quantitative measurement will help identify changes in fluid cleanliness and support proactive maintenance decisions.

Published March 24, 2026