Description
This article is from the Chemistry
FAQ, by Bruce Hamilton B.Hamilton@irl.cri.nz with numerous
contributions by others.
9.3 Where can I purchase chemicals?
The chemicals usually found in home chemistry sets can usually be purchased
at the shop where the set was obtained, or the local hardware shop or
pharmacist, provided the chemical is not subject to government or state
restrictions. Many chemicals are only available to approved purchasers.
If the chemical is used for a hobby, then it is very likely the FAQ for that
Usenet group ( eg rec.pyrotechnics ), will contain information on suppliers.
Most national chemical societies publish an annual listing of suppliers with
their journals. Standard trade directories ( eg Chem Sources [2,3] and OPD
Chemical Buyers Directory [4] ) list companies who specialise in chemicals,
however few will be interested in small purchases.
Smaller specialist and boutique suppliers are usually more likely to sell
small quantities of chemicals to individuals. Most larger suppliers of high
purity laboratory and industrial chemicals ( eg Aldrich-Sigma [5], J.T.Baker
[6] ) will only sell a limited range of chemicals to individuals , and
usually do not provide any discounts for individuals - unless they have an
account with the company. I'm not sure about the US, but here in NZ discounts
can halve the price of most chemicals.
If you are intending to acquire a wide range of chemicals over time, an
account may be a good idea, however remember that you may then be subject to
inspection visits by regulators if you purchase certain chemicals. Most
government and corporate organisations and laboratories also have policies
of not supplying unknown individuals with *any* chemical. Some chemical
suppliers are also accessible via the Internet ( refer Section 7.10 )
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science, engineering, chemistry, composition, laboratory equipment, chemicals, hazard, acid, demonstration, properties, safety, terminology
