Chloroform – the widely used laboratory and industrial solvent is valued for its consistent chemical properties. There are times when the purity level is compromised and sellers either dilute the chemical or provide a low-quality product to the buyers. While you buy chloroform, you have to make sure that you are getting the pure chemical and to ensure that you need to know how to identify tampered or low-quality chloroform.
- Packaging and seals
The very first step to check the authenticity of the product is to check the seal and packaging. Authentic chloroform is packed in chemically resistant containers and they come with intact seals. The broken cap or signs of leakage will definitely indicate tampering. If you are buying chloroform 500ml bottle; which is the standard size for laboratory use; make sure to check that the labelling and seals match the manufacturer’s standard packaging.
- The labels and documentation
Not having the proper labelling and documentation with the product will mean counterfeit material. Any reputed brand will ensure that there is proper documentation with chloroform extra pure or chloroform AR. It is the certificate of analysis that is accompanied with any genuine package of chloroform.
- The physical characteristics
Liquid chloroform is colourless, clear and free from any type of suspended particles. Any type of discolouration or presence of sediments will indicate that the product is not genuine. The smell of the chemical is another indicator of a genuine product. The odour must not be overly sharp or unusual. Discolouration and deviation in the smell can mean that the product is either diluted or not stored properly.
- The authorized suppler criteria
You can be sure about the authenticity of the chloroform you are purchasing when you buy from reputable suppliers. There are several popular brands including Merck chloroform that ensure that their products are genuine. If you purchase from unknown vendors, you will definitely be at risk. Another important thing to notice is whether the chloroform is available at an unusually low price. This is another indicator that the product is not up to the mark.
- Storage and transportation condition
Proper storage is of utmost importance as far as chloroform is concerned. It is possible that genuine chloroform will turn into a low-quality chemical just because of improper storage. You have to check whether the supplier stores and packages the chemical properly. Real chloroform can turn into a low-quality product due to a compromised supply chain.
- Realistic pricing
Real and genuine chloroform does not come at a low price. The proper manufacturing of the chemical includes strict quality control guidelines and thus the finished product cannot be cheap. If any seller offers unexpected low price, you can be sure that there is something fishy about the genuine nature of the product.
Proper inspection is required to identify tampered or low-quality chloroform. Taking care of the above mentioned points will help you to identify below-standard products and thus you can be sure about getting the right thing for the right price.
FAQs
- How does genuine chloroform smell?
The odour of genuine chloroform is neither very faint nor overly strong.
- Is a certificate of analysis necessary?
Authentic chloroform will always be accompanied by the certificate of analysis.
- From where should I buy genuine chloroform?
Reputed brands ensure genuine products.