Liquid Mercury – 99.999% Pure for Sale | Industrial & Scientific Grade

Introduction

Liquid mercury, also known historically as quicksilver, is a unique chemical element with the symbol Hg and atomic number 80. Renowned for being the only metallic element that remains liquid at standard temperature and pressure, mercury’s distinctive properties have made it indispensable in various industrial, scientific, and technological applications for centuries.

At Chemical Supplies, we specialize in supplying 99.999% pure liquid mercury—the highest industry standard—serving clients in Johannesburg, across South Africa, and internationally. Our mercury is sourced, handled, and delivered according to strict safety, environmental, and legal standards, ensuring reliability, compliance, and peace of mind.

What is 99.999% Pure Liquid Mercury?

Definition of Purity

99.999% pure mercury (also known as “five-nines” mercury) is refined to remove virtually all impurities, achieving a purity level suitable for the most demanding scientific and industrial applications. This grade ensures minimal presence of other metals or contaminants, making it ideal for processes where even trace impurities can compromise results.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Chemical Symbol: Hg
CAS Number: 7439-97-6
Appearance: Silvery-white, heavy liquid metal
Density: 13.534 g/cm³ at 25°C
Melting Point: -38.83°C
Boiling Point: 356.73°C
Vapor Pressure: 0.002 mmHg at 25°C
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in some acids

Packaging Options

Sealed flasks or bottles (typically 500g, 1kg, 2.5kg, or custom sizes by request)
Certified tamper-evident packaging
UN-approved containers for hazardous materials
Accompanied by Certificate of Analysis (COA) and Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

Applications of 99.999% Pure Liquid Mercury

1. Industrial Applications

Chlor-alkali Production:
Mercury is used as a cathode in the production of chlorine and caustic soda via the mercury cell process.

Lighting Industry:
High-intensity discharge lamps, fluorescent tubes, and mercury vapor lamps rely on mercury for their unique electrical properties.

Electronics Manufacturing:
Used in switches, relays, and rectifiers where precise, reliable conductivity is essential.

Gold Mining (Historical and Limited Use):
Mercury has been used to amalgamate gold, though this practice is heavily restricted due to environmental concerns.

2. Scientific & Laboratory Uses

Analytical Chemistry:
High-purity mercury serves as a reference material and is used in specialized analytical instruments, such as atomic absorption spectrophotometers.

Physics Experiments:
Liquid mercury is vital for certain barometers, manometers, and as a damping fluid in precision measurement devices.

Calibration & Metrology:
Used for the calibration of thermometers and other scientific equipment requiring absolute accuracy.

3. Medical & Dental Applications

Note: Use in medicine and dentistry has dramatically decreased due to safety regulations but may still occur in specific, controlled research contexts.

Why Choose 99.999% Pure Mercury?

Ultra-High Purity Matters

Consistent Results: High-purity mercury ensures experimental and production consistency.
Reduced Contamination: Prevents unwanted reactions or product failures caused by trace impurities.
Regulatory Compliance: Many industries mandate ultra-pure chemicals to meet strict quality standards.

Chemical Supplies’ Quality Guarantee

Every batch of mercury delivered by Chemical Supplies is tested and verified by accredited laboratories. Our COA confirms trace impurity levels below detectable limits, and our SDS provides comprehensive handling and safety information.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

South African Law on Mercury

Mercury is classified as a hazardous and controlled substance in South Africa. Its sale, transport, and use are regulated under the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), the Hazardous Substances Act, and relevant SANS/ISO standards.

Authorized Purchases Only: Only businesses or research entities with appropriate permits may purchase mercury.
Record-Keeping: Strict documentation and chain-of-custody protocols are enforced for all shipments.
Environmental Responsibility: Chemical Supplies supports responsible recycling and disposal of mercury-containing products.

International Shipping

For clients outside South Africa, mercury export is subject to international conventions such as the Minamata Convention on Mercury. We assist with all legal paperwork and ensure shipments comply with destination country regulations.

Safety Information

Health Hazards

Toxicity: Mercury is highly toxic by inhalation, ingestion, or skin absorption.
Vapor Exposure: Mercury vapor is colorless and odorless; chronic exposure can cause severe neurological damage.
Spill Risk: Even small spills can result in hazardous vapor emissions.

Safe Handling Procedures

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Use chemical gloves, eye protection, and lab coats when handling mercury.
Ventilation:
Work only in well-ventilated areas, preferably under a fume hood.
Spill Response:
Have mercury spill kits on hand. Never use a vacuum cleaner for mercury spills.
Storage:
Store in tightly sealed containers, away from heat and incompatible substances (like ammonia, acetylene, or strong acids).
Disposal:
Mercury waste must be handled as hazardous waste and disposed of via certified recyclers.

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air, seek medical attention.
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water, remove contaminated clothing.
Ingestion: Seek immediate medical help—do not induce vomiting.

How to Purchase 99.999% Pure Liquid Mercury

Step-by-Step Procurement Process

Submit Inquiry:
Contact Chemical Supplies with your company details, intended use, and quantity required.
Eligibility Verification:
We verify business credentials and required permits.
Quotation:
Receive a detailed quotation, including price per kg, packaging, delivery, and compliance documentation.
Order Confirmation:
Confirm your order and arrange payment using secure, traceable methods.
Delivery:
Mercury is shipped in compliance with all legal and safety requirements, with tracking and chain-of-custody documentation.

Contact Details

Email: info@yourwebsite.co.za
Phone: +27 11 123 4567
Physical Address: [Your Address], Johannesburg, South Africa
Online Inquiry Form: yourwebsite.co.za/contact

Why Buy from Chemical Supplies?

Our Advantages

Industry Experience: Years of proven chemical distribution in South Africa and beyond.
Strict Compliance: Adherence to all legal and environmental standards.
Technical Support: Expert advice on handling, storage, and regulatory compliance.
Custom Solutions: Packaging, labeling, and documentation tailored to your needs.
Reliable Delivery: Secure, insured shipping throughout Johannesburg, South Africa, and internationally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Who can legally buy 99.999% pure mercury in South Africa?
A: Only authorized entities such as registered businesses, laboratories, and industrial facilities with the necessary permits may legally purchase mercury.

Q: What is the current price of 1 kg of 99.999% pure mercury?
A: Prices can fluctuate based on global supply and regulatory costs. Contact us directly for a real-time quotation.

Q: How is mercury packaged for delivery?
A: Mercury is sealed in UN-approved containers with tamper-evident seals. Packaging complies with hazardous materials transport regulations.

Q: Can you export mercury outside South Africa?
A: Yes, subject to international regulations and import laws of the destination country. We handle all documentation and compliance.

Q: What safety documentation do you provide?
A: Every order includes a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and a comprehensive Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

Q: What should I do in case of a spill?
A: Use a mercury spill kit and contact a professional cleanup service. Do not attempt to clean large spills yourself.

Environmental Commitment

Chemical Supplies is committed to minimizing the environmental impact of mercury use. We promote responsible recycling, support the phase-out of non-essential mercury applications, and provide guidance on safe disposal.

Conclusion

If you require liquid mercury – 99.999% pure, industrial and scientific grade, Chemical Supplies is your trusted partner in South Africa. With a focus on legal compliance, safety, and customer service, we ensure you receive only the highest quality product with full regulatory support.

Ready to order or need more information? Contact us today for a confidential, no-obligation quote and expert advice on your mercury requirements.