Abstract:
Fluorescent lamps that utilize mercury, and methods and materials to reduce the solubility of mercury when fluorescent lamps are disposed of in a landfill. Such a fluorescent lamp includes a transparent envelope and at least one base enclosing an interior chamber within the envelope. The base has an interior surface and a sealing portion sealed to the envelope with a cement. A gas mixture comprising mercury vapor is contained within the interior chamber, and a quantity of material is disposed on the interior surface of the base. The quantity of material is spaced apart from the sealing portion and the cement thereof, and comprises a chemical agent that substantially reduces or prevents formation of leachable mercury.