Karakuram Scientific Company Ltd and suppliers

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032121420...
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Country
PakistanPakistan
Address
Shigri house Lines area Karachi

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Company Description

We supply Scientific equipments and Chemicals for Schools labs, Hospitals etc. We deals best quality materials all over Pakistan.Kindly contact us on

karakuramscientificcompany@gmail.com


Chemical nameChemical formulaCommon nameSource and description
Acetic acidCH3COOH + H2O5% Solution: White vinegarGrocery store; "white vinegar"—5%

Photography supply store; "Indicator Stop Bath"—89% (with Bromocresol Purple dye) or "Glacial Acetic Acid" 99.5–100%

AcetoneCH3COCH3AcetoneGeneral; "nail polish remover"

Discount store; Onyx, Cutex. Boating supply; "fiberglass cleaner" Hardware store; "Acetone"

While composition varies from product to product, paint removers have more acetone per volume than regular nail polish remover, and industrial grade (rather than consumer grade) paint removers used by professionals + sold in bulk will contain more acetone still. Some stores sell pure acetone as well.[2]

Acetylene gasC2H2EthyneHardware store or Welding supply; "acetylene"

By reaction of calcium carbide and water.

Acetylsalicylic acidC9H8O4AspirinPharmacy; "Aspirin"
AluminiumAlAluminiumGeneral; "aluminium foil"

Fine art store; "metallic pigment"—powdered aluminium

Fiberglass supply shop; powdered aluminium as a filler material.

Refined from mined aluminum ore, or bauxite.

Often coated with wax to reduce flammability.

Aluminium hydroxideAl(OH)3alumina hydrateGeneral; "antacid tablets"—blended with magnesium hydroxide

Antacid Tablets; Alu-cap, Amphojel, Dialume—100%

Fine art supply: "thickening agent"

Aluminium oxideAl2O3aluminaWelding/Industrial supply; "sandblasting sand"—graded sizes of crystals. Metal polishing compound

Telescope supply; grinding agent for optical components

Lapidary supply; rock polishing compound

Aluminium ammonium sulfateAlNH4(SO4)2ammonium alumGeneral; "styptic pencils" for shaving

Fine art supply; mordant for dying and painting

Organic/health/Bulk Foods; by name

Photography supply store; darkroom chemical

Aluminium potassium sulfateKAl(SO4)212H2OAlumpotassium aluminium sulphateGeneral; astringent to shrink mucus membranes

General; "styptic pencil"

General; mordant for clothing dyes (RIT brand and others)

Natural health store; "deodorant stone"

Aluminium sulfateAl2(SO4)3Flocculating PowderPool supply; by name

General; antiperspirant (not deodorant) brand name "Sparkling Clear"

AmmoniaNH3(aq); NH4OHAmmonia,Ammonium HydroxideGrocery store; "household ammonia"—ammonium hydroxide—10% solution.

Make sure it is marked "clear". If it foams when you shake it, it contains soap.

Drug store; "strong ammonia", 27% solution

Welding supply; "ammonia"—anhydrous ammonia in cylinders

Ammonium bicarbonate(NH4)HCO3Salt of Hartshorn,Baker's AmmoniaScandinavian baking ingredient

Must be kept sealed for stability.

Ammonium bifluorideNH4HF2Ammonium hydrogen fluorideHardware store; "toilet bowl cleaner", "rust stain remover"

Automotive supply; "car body cleaner"

General; glass etching (Armour Etch brand)

Ammonium bromideNH4BrPhotography store/Darkroom; "bleach bath" for photograph development
Ammonium carbonate(NH4)2CO3Smelling Salts,Salt of Hartshorn,Baker's AmmoniaGrocery/Drug store; "smelling salts" (first-aid section)

Scandinavian Baking Ingredient

Must be kept sealed for stability.

Ammonium chlorideNH4ClSoldering FluxHardware store (plumbing); "Salt of Ammon", "Sal Ammoniac" (soldering flux/soldering iron cleaner)

Photography supply; darkroom chemical

Ammonium nitrateNH4NO3Ammonium NitrateGarden supply; "Nitrate of Ammonia" (fertilizer)

Grocery/Pharmacy; single-use cold packs

Ammonium persulfate(NH4)2S2O8Etching Solution,Ammonium PeroxodisulphateElectronics supply; "circuit board etching solution"
Ammonium phosphate(NH4)3PO4FertilizerGarden/Agricultural supply; by name
Ammonium sulfate(NH4)2SO4Garden/Agricultural supply; fertilizer or pH adjuster for soil
Amylose(C6H9O5)nCornstarchGrocery store; "corn starch"
AnthocyaninExtraction from Red Cabbage: Cut, boil, then filter
Argon gasArWelding supply; by name

General; inert filler gas inside incandescent light bulbs

Ascorbic acidC6H8O6Vitamin CGeneral; "Vitamin C tablets"

B–C[edit]

Chemical nameChemical formulaCommon or alternative nameSource and description
barium carbonateBaCO3Difficult to find. Sometimes available from pottery and ceramic supply stores.
barium sulfateBaSO4LithoponeAvailable from fine art supply houses in a compound with zinc oxide. This compound is known as "Lithipone" pigment. Also available in very pure form from radiology labs and medical supply as a radio contrast agent for x-rays and CAT scans—here it may be scented or even flavoured. May be available from a well-stocked pottery and ceramics supply store.
benzoyl peroxideC14H10O4benzoic acid peroxideConcentrations as high as 10% are available in the US at drug stores in cream form for treatment of acne. A paste containing 50% benzoyl peroxide, is available from some hardware stores under the brand name "Minwax High Performance Wood Filler".
bismuthBiLead-free shot/sinkersAvailable as a non-toxic lead replacement for bullets, shot, and fishing sinkers. Unfortunately, not as inexpensive as lead. Also, when sold as a lead replacement it is generally alloyed with tin. Note that to make bismuth crystals you will need very pure bismuth metal.
bismuth subsalicylateC7H5BiO4Pepto-BismolThe active ingredient in Pepto-bismol and Kaopectate.
boric acidH3BO3Ant/Roach KillerGrocery, drug store, hardware stores; pest control section.
bromthymol blueC27H28Br2O5SpH TestAquarium pH test kits often employ bromthymol blue because it changes color in the 6.0–7.6 range.
butaneC4H10ButaneThe lighter fluid in hand-held fire starters or cigarette lighters is usually liquid butane. Also available in sporting goods & camping stores as a stove fuel. Many similar fuels use propane, so be sure to read the labeling.
caffeineC8H10N4O2No-DozGrocery or drug store. Often in formulation with corn starch as a binder.
cadmium sulfideCdSCadmium YellowFine art supply house. Available as a yellow powder. Sometimes pure, sometimes blended with zinc sulfide to create alternative hues.
calcium carbideCaC2Still used by cavers and spelunkers to generate acetylene gas for miner's lamps. May be found through a local caver organization (grotto) or at some non-chain camping/outdoor supply stores.
calcium carbonateCaCO3Limestone,Carbonate of LimeChunks: Marble, limestone. Powder: Precipitated chalk.

Builders supply; Chalk, limestone and marble chips.

Drugstore; some antacids are largely calcium carbonate.

Fine art stores; Available as a fine powder used as an extender in paint-making. May be called "Marble Dust" or "Precipitated Chalk".

NBL Blackboard chalk is calcium sulphate, not calcium carbonate.

calcium chlorideCaCl2Laundry Aid/Road Salt/De-IcerSupermarket, Hardware store; much road salt (de-icer) used to de-ice roads in cold climates.

Also available as a laundry aid; or as a room moisture reducer (desiccant), e.g. "DampRid" and "Dri-Z-Air"

Pool supply; sometimes available as a water hardening agent.

calcium hydroxideCa(OH)2Slaked Lime,garden limeGardening department; used to reduce acidity in soil.

Also used in lime-softening water treatment and in plastering. Can be made from lime or quicklime by adding water to create slaked lime. Can be made by dissolving calcium chloride with sodium hydroxide in water.

calcium hypochloriteCa(ClO)2Bleaching powder and some swimming pool disinfectants contain calcium hypochlorite. Available from cleaning or swimming pool supply companies. Keep in mind that some formulations contain cyanuric acid as a stabilizer against UV light.
calcium nitrateCa(NO3)2·4H2ONorwegian saltpeterAvailable from garden supply and agricultural supply stores as a fertilizer.
calcium oxideCaOLimeQuicklimeBuilder's supply; used to make plaster.

Now difficult to obtain from hardware stores. Can be made by heating calcium carbonate at very high temperatures (> 900 °C).

calcium phosphate, monobasicCa(H2PO4)2superphosphateAvailable as a fertilizer from garden supply stores. Also sometimes available as a nutritional supplement at health food stores.
calcium sulfate anhydrousCaSO4Can be made from commonly available plaster of paris by additional heating to above 180C. Also available at fine art supply stores as Terra Alba.
calcium sulfate,hemihydrateCaSO4·1/2H20Plaster of ParisHardware stores, arts and craft stores, and hobby shops.
calcium sulfate dihydrateCaSO4·2H20GypsumCan be made from the reaction of Plaster of Paris with Water.
camphorC10H16OCan be found as a flavor additive at some Chinese grocery stores. Sometimes found in the drugstore as a cream or oral remedy. It feels cool like menthol on the skin.
carbonCSootGraphite,Graphene,Carbon nanotubes,Fullerenes,Diamond,CharcoalCharcoal briquettes used in cooking are available at the grocery store but contain a variety of additives. Activated charcoal used in fish tank filters and graphite used in pencil leads are good sources of carbon. Lamp Black artists pigment is pure carbon in a fine powder and is available from fine art supply stores. The anodes in carbon-zinc (heavy-duty) batteries are pure carbon. Coal is not a good source for carbon due to a wide number of impurities and varying grades. Brazing or Gouging rods are available from welding supply stores and are composed of graphite. Graphite is also available as a common lubricant from hardware stores. Other forms of carbon are occasionally available through online retailers selling to element collectorseBay, engineering suppliers and industrial suppliers. Pure or near-pure carbon can be produced at home through the reaction of Sucrose with Sulfuric Acid or the thermal decomposition of sugars. Diamonds, although prohibitively expensive (except bort or artificial diamonds), can also act as a source of Carbon, such as reducing oxides.
carbon dioxideCO2Dry ice is available from party stores, supermarkets, refrigeration supply companies and ice cream companies. Nationally distributed by Airgas through "Penguin Brand Dry Ice". Gaseous form available in small canisters at sporting goods stores. Used in air guns and in paintball.
carbonic acidH2CO3Soda water is simply carbonated water, a dilute solution of carbonic acid. A "Soda Club" home soda maker is a good way to make your own carbonic acid in varying strengths.
carrageenanAvailable in some health food stores as a food additive. Used in many commercial food preparations as a thickener and gelling agent. Available at fine art supply stores for use in molding and marbling.
cellulose(C6H10O5)nProcessed cotton fiber is almost pure cellulose making many undyed clothing articles an excellent source of cellulose. 100% cotton paper is also a good source of this material.
chromium oxideCr2O3Chrome GreenUsed as a green pigment for fine art paints. It is available as a powder from most fine art supply stores.

Sold as 'Green Rouge' for polishing metal. Often mixed with paraffin to ease handling. Cheaper grades can contain filler materials.

citric acidC6H8O7Sour SaltAvailable at the grocery store as "Sour Salt". Also used for home soap making and also in photographic development.
copperCuElectrical wire, copper pipe, and copper sheeting are available at hardware stores and are almost 100% pure copper. American pennies (minted 1944–1946, 1962–1982) are 95% copper and 5% zinc. Pennies minted after 1982 are only copper clad.
copper naphthenateCu(C11H10O2)2cupric naphthenateUsed as a wood preservative to protect lumber from termites, ants, and other burrowing insects. Brands including Wolman and Jasco are up to 25% copper naphthenate with the remainder composed of linseed oil and petroleum distillate-based solvents.
copper sulfate(anhydrous)CuSO4cupric sulfate(anhydrous)Available from garden supply or pond supply stores as an algaecide and rootkiller.

NB: blue vitriol is copper sulfate pentahydrate. It can be converted into unhydrated copper sulfate by heating to 150C until it turns pure white.

copper sulfate pentahydrateCuSO45H2Ocupric sulfate, blue vitriol, bluestoneHardware store; rootkiller (Zep Root Kill, Rooto Root Kill)

Gardening, agricultural supply; active ingredient in many algaecides, available for pest control

cyanuric acidC3H3N3O3isocyanuric acidAvailable from swimming pool and lawn/yard supply stores as a chlorine stabilizer. A pure tablet form sells under the brand name "Kem Tek".

D–G[edit]

Chemical nameChemical formulaCommon or alternative nameSource and description
dextroseC6H12O6glucosecorn syrupGrocery; corn syrup, some throat lozenges are pure dextrose.

Dextrose is right-handed (dextrorotatory) glucose. Levulose is left-handed (levorotatory) glucose. Most products are a half-and-half mix.

dichloromethaneCH2Cl2methylene chlorideUsed as a solvent, degreaser and adhesive remover, it is available from hardware, automotive, and sometimes craft stores. Purity of commercial products can approach 90% with the remainder being composed of alcohols and petroleum distillates. Common brands include "Champion Paint Off", many choke and valve cleaners, and Klean Strip Graffiti Remover.
dimethyl sulfoxide(CH3)2SODMSOAvailable from health food and naturopathic supply stores for treating injuries. Warning: DMSO will allow anything it has dissolved to pass directly through your skin into your bloodstream. Use gloves and skin protection when working with this chemical.
ethanol/ethyl alcoholC2H5OHEverclearAvailable as 95% pure ethanol and 5% water from liquor stores in most states. Also available in denatured form from hardware stores. Grocery and drug stores may carry it as ethyl rubbing alcohol.
ether(C2H5)2Odiethyl ether,ethoxyethaneSold at auto supply stores in aerosol cans as "Starter Fluid" or "Cold Start Spray". Used to help start damp or inefficient old engines.
ethylene glycolCH2OHCH2OH1,2-ethanediolSome engine antifreezes are primarily ethylene glycol and can be obtained at an automotive supply store.
eugenolCH2CH2CH2C6H3(OCH3)OHoil of clove2-methoxy-4-(2-propenyl)phenolAvailable at most health food and natural healing stores as clove oil. Note that organically derived oil of clove will have numerous impurities from the distillation process. Synthetic oil of clove is generally pure but more difficult to find.
formic acidCH2O2methanoic acidAvailable in some stain removers at the hardware store. A fairly pure 5% concentration can be obtained from the blue chamber of "Clorox Dual Action Toilet Bowl Cleanser".
fructoseC6H12O6Fruit SugarEasily available from most grocery stores.
glucoseC6H12O6Dextrosecorn syrupGrocery; corn syrup. Some throat lozenges are pure dextrose.

Dextrose is right-handed (dextrorotatory) glucose. Levulose is left-handed (levorotatory) glucose. Most products are a half-and-half mix.

glyceringlycerolC3H8O31,2,3-propanetriolGlycerin is an emollient used to soften skin by delaying the evaporation of water. It is available at most drug stores.
goldAuGold jewelry is generally not pure gold. Gold is generally alloyed with other metals to increase strength. Gold coins are often .999 fine gold and many may be obtained at "bullion value" from local coin shops. Pure gold dust and gold foils are available from fine art supply stores.
gum ArabicCH4O3Sgum acaciaAvailable at arts & crafts stores and at fine art supply stores as a binder for turning pigments into paints. In solution with water.

H–K[edit]

Chemical nameChemical formulaCommon or alternative nameSource and description
heliumHeHelium can be obtained from party stores or wherever helium balloons are available. Small disposable containers are available for long-term storage. Containers made by Worthington Industries are 99% pure helium. Note that "balloon gas" is a mixture of helium and normal air.
hexamineC6H12N4HexamethylenetetramineSold as solid fuel tablets in camping and outdoor stores, in combination with 1,3,5-trioxane.
hydrogen gasH2HydrogenCan be generated and captured from electrolysis of water and a wide variety of inorganic chemical reactions. Adding aluminium foil to a solution of Sodium Hydroxide will generate hydrogen gas. Highly flammable and explosive under pressure or in quantity.
hydrochloric acidHClMasonry Cleaner,Muriatic acidHardware store; used in swimming pool maintenance, as masonry cleaner and in silverware cleaner.

Percentages vary but concentrations as high as 35% can be found. Sometimes sold as "Bleaching Water" and many other alternative names.

It can be made by performing electrolysis on salt water with platinum anodes and cathodes, and combining the gases away from sunlight. (Doing this in sunlight is dangerous, as an explosive reaction will occur.)

hydrofluoric acidHFGlass Etching SolutionHardware store; Aluminum brightener & tire cleaner

Fine art supply; for etching glass.

Grocery; under various brand names as a rust remover.

Car dealership; professional grade tire cleaning solutions are typically more concentrated.

Must be stored in polyethylene or Teflon containers. Recommended to keep Calcium gluconate gel on hand in case of an accidental spill. Highly toxic and dangerous

hypochlorous acidHClOLaundry BleachGrocery store.
hydroquinoneC6H6O2Photography store catering to the at-home darkroom crowd.
hydrogen peroxideH2O2PeroxideHydrogen peroxide antiseptic (3%)or even (6%) is available from the drug store. Clairoxide hair bleach by Clairol is much more concentrated (12%) and is available from beauty supply stores. Concentrations as high as 35% may be available at health food stores and natural medicine stores as a source of "natural oxygen". Swimming pool and spa suppliers often carry concentrations as high as 27% but these usually contain preservatives/stabilizers. Note: Do not heat. Do not store in metal containers.
iodineI2IodideTincture of iodine, a topical antiseptic used for treating wounds, is a solution of iodine dissolved in ethyl alcohol. It is available at most drug stores. Available from camping stores as crystals for sterilizing water. Crystal Iodine can also be synthesized from Potassium Iodide as radiation pills, utilizing laboratory methods. Certain laboratory methods can be considerably hazardous. Iodine is illicitly used in the production of methamphetamine, making iodine somewhat difficult to obtain. In the United States, it is illegal to sell, purchase, transport, or possess iodine with the knowledge or intention of its use for producing methamphetamine. Small quantities, such as those used in chemistry experiments such as the Briggs–Rauscher reaction, are legal to obtain and require no permits nor record-keeping.[3]
ironFeSteel wool, iron nails, iron bolts, nuts, screws are good sources of iron.
ferric chlorideFeCl3Etching SolutionAvailable in solution from Radio Shack and other electronics suppliers as an etching solution for circuit boards. Also available in solution from fine art supply stores.
ferric oxide(Iron III Oxide)Fe2O3RustCommon rust. Reddish in color. Can be scraped off of rusted iron objects or purchased in a purified form as the artists pigment "Red Iron Oxide" from fine art supply stores.
ferrous ferric oxide (Iron II III Oxide)Fe3O4MagnetiteUsed as the artists pigment "Mars Black" and can be purchased from fine art supply stores.
iron sulfateFeSO4Ferrous sulfateSulfate of ironCopperasAvailable from garden supply stores as a nutrient. Also available as a mordant for pigments from stores that carry dyeing and textile supplies.
keroseneCnH2n+1(n=12–16)Aviation FuelLamp oil or kerosene is sold in the paint departments of most hardware stores. Also available in larger quantities from gas stations in many parts of the country.

L–N[edit]

Chemical nameChemical formulaCommon or alternative nameSource and description
lactic acidC3H6O3Milk AcidAvailable from grocery stores and health food stores.
latexC3H6O3Liquid Latex Body PaintAvailable from adult toy stores as a novelty item and from select hobby shops. Compositions vary in the amount of ammonia and fillers they contain. Also costume/magic shops, as liquid skin/liquid latex.
leadPbLead shot and lead sinkers are used by fishermen and are available at sporting goods stores. They may be alloyed with tin and antimony. Also lead is used for wheel balancing weights at auto garages. Lead sheeting may be obtained from stores that carry roofing supplies.
linseed oilUsed as a binder in paints and as a finish for wood. Available at hardware stores and fine art supply stores. "Boiled linseed oil" contains Lead Oxide (boiled with PbO), which speeds hardening (oxidizing) on contact with oxygen.
LithiumLiLithium can be obtained from Lithium batteries.[4]
magnesiumMgFire starterSold in solid blocks as a fire starter in many camping and outdoor stores. Also used in the construction of metal bodied pencil sharpeners made by the company "KUM" of Germany.
magnesium carbonateMgCO3Athlete's chalkOften sold as a powder in sporting goods stores for gymnastics, weightlifting, and climbing to help keep hands dry. Sometimes it is combined with calcium carbonate in this use. Available in tablet form as an antacid. Some antacids are pure while others are blended with calcium carbonate.
magnesium hydroxideMg(OH)2Milk of MagnesiaMilk of Magnesia is an antacid used to settle sour (acidic) stomachs. Some antacid tablets also contain magnesium hydroxide.
magnesium silicateMg3Si4O10(OH)2TalcTalcum powder comes from talc, the softest of all minerals, and is used as a dusting powder for babies. It is available in the body care section of the drug store.
magnesium sulfateMgSO47H2OEpsom SaltDrug store; epsom salt is sold as a laxative or as an anti-inflammatory soak. Also available as a chemical for photographic development.
magnesium chlorideMgCl2Nigari or LushuiAsian markets; Nigari, as it's called in Japan, or Lushui, as it's called in China. Used to make tofu from soy milk.
manganese dioxideMnO2PyrolusiteHardware store; available as the black powder in unused alkaline or carbon-zinc batteries. By extensively washing this powder in distilled water you can remove the embedded Zinc Chloride solution.
mercuryHgquicksilverBecoming difficult to find due to fears of toxicity and environmental contamination. Old mercury switches can be found in many thermostats. Old-style thermometers contain mercury. Fluorescent light tubes contain a small amount of mercury though it can be difficult to extract. Specialty occult stores may carry it as quicksilver. "Ben-Wha" balls at sex toy shops.
methaneCH4Natural GasGas line in many homes.
methanolCH3OHMethyl AlcoholMethanol is sold as a solvent in paint supply stores under the names "wood alcohol" or "methyl alcohol". Available from automotive supply as a gasoline line anti-freeze.
methyl ethyl ketoneCH3COC2H5MEKAvailable from most hardware stores as a solvent.
methyl ethyl ketone peroxideC8H16O4MEKPAvailable in dilute solution from hardware and boating supply stores as a catalyst for the polymerization of polyester resins.
methyl isobutyl ketoneCH3COCH2CH(CH3)2MIBKAvailable from many hardware stores as a solvent.
methylene blueC16H18ClN3SMethidoteMethylene blue (Methidote antiseptic) is used to treat small injured fish and is available at pet stores.
methylene chlorideCH2Cl2dichloromethaneUsed as a solvent, degreaser and adhesive remover, it is available from hardware, automotive, and sometimes craft stores. Purity of commercial products can approach 90% with the remainder being composed of alcohols and petroleum distillates. Common brands include "Champion Paint Off", many choke and valve cleaners, and Klean Strip Graffiti Remover.
methyl salicylateC6H4(OH)COOCH3Oil of WintergreenDrug store
mineral oilcomplex mixture of hydrocarbonsMineral oil is sold in drug stores as an emollient. Some baby oils are essentially mineral oil and fragrance.
monosodium glutamateC5H8NNaO4"味精, MSG"Widely used as a condiment in many parts of Asia. Can be purchased from Chinese or Japanese grocery stores. Also easily acquired in many supermarkets as a "flavor enhancer".
naphthaleneC10H8moth ballsHardware store, grocery store.

NB: Mothballs may also be made of (para)dichlorobenzene (1,4-dichlorobenzene)

nickelNiPre-1985 Canadian nickels are made of nickel. Note: American "nickels" are composed of 25% nickel and 75% copper. Nickel is often used as a welding filler material, and 1/16–1/8" Ni wire is often available at welding supply stores. "Silver" center of Euro coins is pure Nickel.
nitrogenN2liquid nitrogenHospital, laboratory, university, welding supply house, and industrial gas supplier can all provide liquid or gaseous nitrogen.
nitrous oxideN2Owhipping gas,laughing gasWhipped cream canisters from the grocery store. Or in larger canisters from commercial restaurant supply houses. When packaged for automotive use it is usually contaminated with hydrogen sulfide to discourage inhalation. Industrial (welding supply) Nitrous Oxide contains NO and NO2 (can be removed with moist steel wool)which makes Nitric acid in your lungs so use with good ventilation. (Heating Ammonium Nitrate generates an industrial grade of Nitrous Oxide at the risk of explosion.)

O–P[edit]

Chemical nameChemical formulaCommon or alternative nameSource and description
oxalic acidC2H2O4rust remover, non-chlorine bleach powder cleanserGrocery, drug, hardware stores. "Bar Keeper's Friend".

Hardware store; radiator cleaner, "wood bleach powder", rust remover.

"Prestone Heavy Duty Cooling System Cleaner" may contain up to 98% oxalic acid with handful of trace impurities.

oxygenO2Portable welding oxygen tanks are available at welding shops and some hardware stores. Can be generated in small quantities from the electrolysis of water.
para-dichlorobenzeneC6H4Cl2moth flakesmoth crystalsHardware or grocery store.
paraffinCnH2n+2 (n>19)Unless otherwise labeled, candle wax is made of paraffin. Some grocery stores sell paraffin as a sealant for home canning. Many arts and crafts stores sell paraffin for at-home candle makers. "Vaseline" brand is also paraffin, albeit with molecules that are slightly shorter.
phenolC6H5OHPhenol can be found in small amounts (~1–2%) in analgesic sore throat spray.
phenolphthaleinC20H14O4Magic shops might carry it as a pinkish disappearing ink. Blue disappearing ink is not phenolphthalein but thymolphthalein. Difficult to find outside of chemical supply.
phenol redC19H19SO5phenolsulfonephthaleinUsed as a pH tester for swimming pools. Available at swimming pool supply stores.
phosphoric acidH3PO4pH DownSome pH reducers (available at pet stores) used in fish tanks are simply dilute solutions (up to 30%) of phosphoric acid. Also available in gel form at hardware stores as a rust remover. "Naval Jelly" in a spray bottle at hardware stores. Also used as a solder flux.
polystyrenecasting resinHobby shop
polyurethane foamMountains in MinutesHobby shop, hardware, or building supply store.
potassium aluminium sulfateKAl(SO4)2·12H2OAlumaluminium potassium sulfateIt is used as an astringent to shrink mucous membranes. Some styptic pencilsuse it in their formulation. Often sold as a deodorant stone at natural health stores. Also available as a mordant for clothing dyes (RIT brand and others).
potassium bitartrateKHC4H4O6Cream of TartarCream of Tartar is available at the grocery store and is used to stabilize delicate foods like meringue toppings and other baked egg-white products.
potassium carbonateK2CO3PotashAvailable at some garden supply and agricultural stores.
potassium bromideKBrPhotography store catering to the at-home darkroom crowd.
potassium chlorideKClSalt substituteAvailable as a salt substitute by people who must limit their sodium intake, and is available at most supermarkets. Also available in larger, though slightly less pure, quantities as a road salt de-icer.
potassium chromium sulfateKCr(SO4)2·12H20potassium chrome alumPhotography store catering to the at-home darkroom crowd.
potassium dichromateK2Cr2O7Photography store catering to the at-home darkroom crowd. Also used as a mordant ("Chrome Mordant") for textiles and may be available at a dyeing and fabric store.
potassium iron (ii) hexacyanoferrate(iii)KFe[Fe(CN)6]potassium iron ferricyanidepotassium ferroferricyanideMrs. Stewart's liquid laundry bluing is used to whiten clothes and may be found in the detergents section of the supermarket.
potassium hydroxideKOHCaustic potashAvailable at some ceramic supply houses and from arts and crafts stores for soap making. Difficult to find. May be the active ingredient in some drain cleaning solutions. Kodak SII Activator is 10% Potassium Hydroxide with various sulfitesand bromides in the mixture. Veterinary supply houses may carry it for dissolving hair and horns in animals.
potassium iodideKIRadiation PillsAvailable sometimes as a photographic development chemical. Also from outdoor/survivalist stores in pill form to avoid the uptake of radioactive iodine during a nuclear accident.
potassium metabisulfiteK2S3O5Campden tabletsUsed as a sterilizing agent in winemaking and brewing processes. Sold as tablets which may be pure, blended with sodium metabisulfite, or contain only sodium metabisulfite.
potassium nitrateKNO3Saltpeter, saltpetreSupermarket; saltpeter or quick salt is used to cure home-made sausages andcorned beef. May be available at independent butcher shops.

Agriculture and gardening stores; fertilizer, tree stump remover and root killer.

potassium permanganateKMnO4ClearwaterClearwater is a solution of approximately 50% potassium permanganate and is used to remove odors and cloudiness from water to be used in aquariums and garden ponds. Also used to treat diseases in fish. Used as ~98% pure powder for treatment of hard well water in water softeners. Potassium Permanganate in a dilute solution form can also be found in certain fish water additive sometimes labelled as "Gill, Fungus, Parasite's Special", One sure way to test is to put some onto your skin and leave it there for a while, then see if there's a brownish coloration/stain. The color of the solution is colored as normal permanganate in solution.
potassium sodium tartrateNaKC4H4O6 * 4H2ORochelle saltDrug store
propaneC3H8Gas barbecue fuel is generally made of propane and is available at many gasoline stations or picnic supply stores.
2-propanolCH3CHOHCH3rubbing alcoholRubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) is a concentrated solution of 2-propanol and may be found in most drug stores. Supermarkets owned by Safeway carry a 99% pure version.

S[edit]

Chemical nameChemical formulaCommon or alternative nameSource and description
silicon carbideSiCCarborundumThis hard, abrasive powder is often found sorted by particle size for use in sandblasting and industrial supply houses.
silicon dioxideSiO2SandsilicaQuartz sand is relatively pure silicon dioxide and is available at many building supply stores and also aquarium shops. Often found sorted by particle size for use in sandblasting. Micrometre sized particles are used as a filler in rubbers, plastics, and mold making materials and may be available in hobby shops as Min-u-Sil brand.

Available in a porous, amorphous form as the silica desiccant packets found in many sealed food envelopes, electronics boxes, and other packaging. New desiccant packets are often available from local photography stores which cater to the at-home darkroom crowd.

Non-porous amorphous silica is industrially known as Cab-o-Sil. Fairly pure quartz (silica) crystal can be found as one of the rock varieties in many "fill your bag with treasure" stands at tourist-oriented gift shops.[citation needed]

silverAgOlder non-clad American dimes, quarters, half dollars and silver dollars are 90% silver and 10% copper. Pure silver coins and bullion can be obtained from local coin shops, often at bullion value.
sodium acetateNaC2H3O2Hand WarmerMain ingredient in hand-warmers that are available at sporting goods stores. Can also be made through the reaction of baking soda and vinegar.
sodium borateNa2B4O710H2OThe water can be driven off of grocery store Borax by heating to 200C to create pure sodium borate (although it will begin absorbing atmospheric moisture again when cooled and left in the open).
sodium bicarbonateNaHCO3Baking Soda, Bicarbonate of SodaGrocery baking section; "single action baking soda"

NB: Baking soda is pure sodium bicarbonate, but baking powder has other ingredients, such as potassium tartrate and sodium monophosphate. Double action baking powder contains single action baking powder, a 'high temperature acid', and corn starch.

disodium phosphateNa2HPO4pH DownFound at pet stores and used to lower the pH of aquarium water.
sodium bisulfateNaHSO4pH DownPool supply store. Crystal Vanish drain cleaner.
sodium bromideNaBrHot Tub SaltPool supply store
sodium carbonateNa2CO3Washing sodasoda ashGrocery; "Arm & Hammer"

Cloth, art stores; Washing soda is used to treat wool fibers.

Pool supply; used to raise pH (increasing alkalinity) under brand names such as PH Up and PH Plus. Can easily be made by baking Sodium Bicarbonate (baking soda) at 350 degrees.

sodium chlorateNaClO3Available from gardening and agricultural stores. This herbicide is toxic to all green plants and, as such, is becoming less available as more selective herbicides some onto the market. Some brand names are Atlacide, Defol, Drop-Leaf, and Tumbleaf. Read product labeling to deduce the particular purity of any of these brands.
sodium chlorideNaClSaltGrocery; Table salt used in cooking is sodium chloride, usually with anti-caking agents such as magnesium carbonate. "Iodized salt" contains traces of sodium iodide.

Uniodized salt is available and is often explicitly labeled as such. Kosher salt, canning or pickling salt, or other large crystal salt is generally more pure.

Water supply; For large quantities, uniodized sodium chloride can be obtained inexpensively from water softener suppliers.

sodium fluorideNaFUsed in toothpastes and mouthwashes to prevent cavities. Difficult to obtain in pure form. Most dental solutions contain a laundry list of inert ingredients to provide coloring, flavor, foaming, and other aesthetic properties.
sodium hexametaphosphate(NaPO3)6Sodium polymetaphosphate,Calgon water softenerThis water softener, surfactant and detergent is the primary ingredient in Calgon water softener. It is available at the grocery and hardware store. It is also known by other names including: glassy sodiumGraham's Salt, and hexasodium salt.
sodium hydroxideNaOHLyeCaustic SodaGrocery, hardware; Known also as caustic soda and lye, sodium hydroxide is used in many commercial drain cleaners/openers.

Ex: Rooto Drain Opener (100% Pure), Drano (not 100% pure), Roebic Crystal Drain Opener

NB: Keep out of eyes

sodium hypochloriteNaClOBleachHousehold bleach is generally a 5% solution of sodium hypochlorite.
sodium nitrateNaNO3Chile saltpeterGarden supply store
sodium metabisulfiteNa2S2O5Campden tabletsUsed as a sterilizing agent in winemaking and brewing processes. Sold as tablets which may be pure, blended with potassium metabisulfite, or contain only potassium metabisulfite.
sodium percarbonate2Na2CO3·3H2O2sodium carbonate peroxyhydrateA combination of sodium carbonate and hydrogen peroxide in solution, this is often sold as a wood bleach for use on decks and outdoor wood furniture. Available at many hardware and home improvement stores. Sometimes referred to as "oxygenated bleach".
sodium phosphateNa3PO4Tri Sodium PhosphateTri-sodium phosphate, commonly known as TSP, is available at hardware stores and is used to clean walls prior to painting.
sodium silicateNa2SiO3, Na2Si3O7water glass, egg preserver, magic rocksCan be found at some hardware stores and drug stores. Available from ceramic suppliers as a flocculent in clay slip casting. Non-phosphate TSP substitute. Liquid sold with "muffler bandage" at auto stores.
sodium sulfiteNa2SO3Photography store catering to the at-home darkroom crowd.
sodium sulfateNa2SO4Photography store catering to the at-home darkroom crowd.
sodium tetraborate decahydrateNa2B4O710H2OBoraxMarket, drug store; Borax, such as Twenty-Mule-Team Borax Laundry Booster.
sodium thiosulfateNa2S2O3HypoPhotographer's hypo is used in photograph development and is available at photography supply stores. Also available from pet shops as a de-chlorination additive to fish water.
stearic acidC17H35CO2Hcandle hardenerSome arts and crafts stores will carry this item. It is used by do-it-yourself candle makers.
SteelFe alloyed with C and depending on type, possibly also Ni, B, V, Cr among othersGalvanised wire,nail (fasteners),stainless steelball bearingssteel woolSteel, although commonly used in industry and construction, is often unavailable in pure form (other than a few types such of mild steel, galvanised steel, stainless steel and carbon steel that are used for amateur metalworking) to amateur scientists. Otherwise, they will have to make do with galvanised or stainless steel materials such as nails, screws, tools, cutlery, steel wool, ball bearings, steel girders and steel wire. Due to the variety of steel types, carbon content will widely vary and can contain many other elements such as NickelVanadiumChromiumSiliconBoron,ZincAluminiumTitaniumManganeseTungsten; these alloys all have different names and are sporadically available in different areas and retailers. Steel of various types can also be plated with Zinc or Tin to prevent corrosion or Gold to make it look precious
sucroseC12H22O11SugarGrocery; Table sugar is available in large or small bags and in a variety of particle sizes.

It is made from sugar beets and sugarcane.

sulfur (sulphur)SFlowers of sulfur are sold at some garden stores to treat certain plant diseases. Found at most Home Depot stores as "Organic Garden sulfur". Also available at many drug stores.
sulfuric acidH2SO4vitriol, oil of vitriolHardware store; battery acid. May also be obtained at some auto supply stores.

Plumbing supply; buffered solutions available: "Pro Liquid Drain Cleaner"

Pet supply; dilute aqueous solution is used to lower the pH in aquariums.

T–Z[edit]

Chemical nameChemical formulaCommon or alternative nameSource and description
tannic acidC76H52O46tanninArts and crafts store in the dyes and fabric section. Some photography stores and drug stores may carry it.
tartaric acidC4H6O6wine preservativeSold in wine-making supply stores and sometimes in the grocery store.
tetrachloroethyleneC2Cl4tetrachloroetheneThe most common solvent for dry cleaning, it is available in aerosol form from hardware, auto supply, and home improvement stores. Brands like "Lectra Motive Auto Care" and "Gummout Professional Brake Parts Cleaner" contain as much as 99% with methylene chloride as the only major contaminant.
thymolphthaleinC28H30O4disappearing inkIt is the blue disappearing ink available at magic supply stores.
titanium dioxideTiO2Titanium WhiteAvailable as a fine powder for use as a pure white pigment from fine art supply stores.
1,1,1trichloroethaneCCl3CH3cleaning fluid, degreaserhardware store
1,1,1,2tetrafluoroethaneCF3CH2FMost "canned air" products contain this gas under pressure. Read the labels as some contain other solvents.
thioureaCS(NH2)2ThiocarbamideMany silver cleaning products including Hagerty and Tarn-X contain thiourea as the only active ingredient. Other brands may use other active compounds in combination.
tolueneC6H5CH3Methylbenzene,cellulose thinnerAvailable from most hardware stores as a solvent.
town gasA mixture mainly consists ofhydrogen,carbon monoxide andmethaneNil.Available from households in urban area. Toxic and explosive. The carbon monoxide can be removed from the mixture by passing the gas through large quantity of citratedchicken blood.
trichloroethyleneCHClCCl2trichloroetheneAvailable as a fairly pure aerosol from hardware and auto supply stores. Brand names include "Lectra Clean" and "Trouble Free Rust Buster".
tungstenWThe filament in incandescent light bulbs is made of tungsten. Also, small tungsten rods are available at welding supply stores. They are sold as TIG electrodes, and they commonly come in 1/16, 3/32, and 1/8" diameters. Request pure tungsten, as they also come alloyed with 2% ThoriumLanthanum and other elements. Lead free fishing sinkers are sometimes tungsten.
turpentineAvailable at hardware stores and fine art supply stores.
ureaH2NCONH2ice melter,fertilizerAvailable at some hardware stores and at garden supply stores. "Bonide Azalea" fertilizer is 99% urea.
waterH2ODistilled (pure) water, is available in most grocery stores. This and "deionized" water are sufficient for most chemical reactions. "Spring water" or "tap water" have numerous minerals in solution. For certain, extremely sensitive experiments, contamination from plasticizers in the bottle may affect your reactions.
xyleneC8H10dimethylbenzeneAvailable at hardware stores, paint stores, and fine art supply stores.
zincZnzincRecent American pennies are 95% zinc with a 5% copper coating Cent (United States coin). Galvanized coating on steel. Inside of carbon-zinc batteries. Found in some hardware stores as "moss strip" for rooftop. The case of carbon-zinc batteries is zinc. "Galvanizing paint" contains powdered Zinc in paint, separate with paint thinner. Pure zinc sacrificial electrodes are available at marine supply stores.
zinc chlorideZnClf + H2OTinner's Fluid, "killed acid"Hardware store; used for cleaning copper.

Can be created by dissolving a small amount of zinc in hydrochloric acid.

zinc oxideZnOpompholyxFound in opaque sunscreens for its UV opacity. "Chinese White" fine arts pigment is very pure.
zinc sulfateZnSO4zinc sulfate"Moss Killer" for use on roofs and concrete. (Moss killer for grass lawns is Ferrous Ammonium Sulfate.)

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