Glycerin is a ubiquitous compound, not only on food and cosmetic labels, but throughout nature. Learn about the multi-faceted nature of this compound, and how its famous humectant properties contribute to a natural preservative effect. Across industries, a valuable tactic is learning how to make preservatives with glycerin. What is glycerin? Glycerin or glycerol (IUPAC […]
Sulfuric acid is one of the most common acidifying reagents and sulfur sources, essential across multiple industries. At the same time, it is also a toxic and highly hazardous chemical reagent, requiring safe handling and disposal by trained personnel. For this reason, it’s important to understand how to safely dispose of sulfuric acid. A major […]
It’s December, the season of baked goods – from Christmas cookies to hearty breads that will keep you cozy and nourished as the temperatures drop. There’s a special ingredient that is common among home bakers, small food businesses, all the way up to large scale food production: the humble (yet sort of magical) baking soda, […]
Cold-weather agriculture represents additional challenges for many high-value crops, in addition to commodity grains and fibers. Master winter crop survival with potassium nitrate. Potassium nitrate could be the missing key to your crop’s survival. That’s because this inorganic salt is a source of two essential plant nutrients: potassium and nitrate. Together, these nutrients can promote […]
As the most practical and widely used of the strong acids, sodium hydroxide is a staple in almost every chemistry lab. In this article, we’ll go over Storage and Shelf Life: Sodium Hydroxide. It is essential to follow best lab practices when storing and working with sodium hydroxide for five reasons: Mitigating safety concerns for […]
Acetone is a staple chemical solvent in most laboratories. It is also perhaps one of the most recognizable chemicals to the layperson, best known as the pungent solvent comprising nail polish remover. However, don’t be fooled by the ubiquity or familiarity of acetone. Acetone safety is imperative given its hazardous nature. Acetone, is a class IB […]
Did you know that bioethanol fireplaces are an environmentally conscious way to stay warm and cozy during the cold winter months? Indoor and outdoor fireplaces can run on bioethanol, a sustainable fuel made from plants. Bioethanol is an alternative to conventional fuel sources such as wood or propane for specially engineered fireplaces. Not only is […]
Asking yourself “What is the shelf life of the chemicals being stored in my facility?” is a sign you’re staying on top of important aspects of your business’s non-negotiable legal and safety concerns. Proper storage not only extends the shelf life of your chemicals, but it keeps your workers safe from hazards, and it keeps your […]
Household chemicals like sodium hydroxide can often be flushed down the drain with plenty of water at home. However, this protocol may not comply with waste disposal regulations on a business or laboratory scale operation. This article will explain how to dispose of sodium hydroxide if you are operating as a business or laboratory. This […]
With names so strikingly similar, it’s no wonder these substances are easily confused with one another. So, let’s take a moment to sort through what makes quinone, quinine, and hydroquinone unique.
