Citric Acid and other ingredientsWhen you are shopping for dry soapmaking, household or industrial chemicals ingredients keep these topics in mind:

1) Buy from a reputable seller that has been in the chemical business a while.  When you receive a white powder in the mail, you need to be sure that the seller packed what was in his or her ad. Was it Boric Acid, Borax (5 mol or 10 mol) Citric Acid, or Ascorbic Acid?   And, was there, or will there be any additional paperwork in the package to give you instructions about it and how to use it.

2) Certificate of Analysis- All types of soap making, and other household and industrial chemicals have some type of analysis made by the manufacturer before leaving their plant.  If what you are doing requires a product of a certain purity- can your seller provide you with detailed information, and upon request send it in the box, or fax you the detailed information about the chemical analysis?. Do you need a technical grade product, or something more pure to meet food chemical codex requireemnts? Check to see. If you need a Certificate Of Analysis ask for it if you need it. If there is a problem getting one, it might be best to find another seller.

3) Moisture and impurities-Some chemicals have a tendency to absorb moisture. Does your seller pack the items so that the product can be shipped and stored without degradation?  Most products can safely be sent in just a zip lock bag- but if moisture content is a concern, ask your seller to double bag, or send the product in a vacuum packed bag. As far as impurities- inspect your package before you use it to make sure the product is clean.

4) Contact information: Does the seller provide contact information, not only on Ebay, but in the package too?  If not you may have problems.  We alwasy provide phone numbers so we can be reached  by buyers, prospective customers, as well as the shipping companies in case of problems or broken packages.  It saves a lot of time and trouble if you or anyone at the shipping company has a question!

See us for all your chemical and ingredients needs! Arkie-Annie on Ebay or check the-Chemistry-Connection, our Ebay Store offering great chemicals and ingredients to the Ebay Community!