Overview
Acronyms mean different chemicals to different scientific disciplines, for example "TEA"
- To the biologist:
- Transcriptional enhancer activator nuclear protein (NR)
- To the chemist:
- Triethanolamine (NR)
- Triethylamine (U404)
- Triethylaluminum (D003)
Acronyms are not acceptable labeling for waste containers. Acronyms mean different chemicals to different scientific disciplines. Even within a discipline, the same acronym can mean different chemicals, which could impact the regulatory status when disposed. Use of fully-written proper chemical names eliminates this inconsistency and ensures a proper waste determination. Note in particular how the acronym “TEA” could mean several things and result in differing waste determinations.