The Mercury collection at BVV features high-purity elemental liquid mercury, an essential reagent for specialized laboratory analysis, industrial catalysis, and high-precision instrumentation. Our mercury is triple-distilled to ensure the extreme level of purity required for use in polarography, specialized electrical switchgear, and as a calibration standard for pressure-sensing equipment.
Given the unique physical properties and the significant environmental and health risks associated with mercury vapor, BVV enforces the highest standards of containment and logistics. All mercury is supplied in specialized, chemical-resistant packaging designed to meet or exceed DOT Hazmat regulations. To ensure the safe and legal handling of this toxic heavy metal, we ship exclusively to verified commercial business addresses with a mandatory adult signature. Whether you are conducting complex organic synthesis or maintaining critical lab equipment, BVV provides the secure supply chain necessary for the responsible use of elemental mercury.
What is Elemental Mercury primarily used for in the lab?
Elemental mercury is used in laboratory settings as a liquid electrode in polarography, a catalyst in specific chemical reactions, and as a calibration medium for thermometers, barometers, and manometers.
What does "Triple-Distilled" Mercury mean?
Triple-distilled mercury has undergone three separate distillation processes to remove trace impurities, such as base metals and oxides, resulting in a purity level typically exceeding 99.99%.
How should Mercury be stored to prevent vapor release?
Mercury should be stored in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or glass containers with secure, vapor-tight seals. It must be kept in a cool, well-ventilated, and secondary-containment area to prevent accidental spills.
What are the health risks of handling Mercury?
Mercury is a potent neurotoxin. Exposure primarily occurs through the inhalation of mercury vapor, which can be released even at room temperature. Chronic exposure can lead to damage to the nervous, digestive, and immune systems.
What PPE is required for handling Mercury?
When handling mercury, you must wear nitrile or specialized chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and a lab coat. If there is a risk of vapor exposure, a NIOSH-approved respirator with mercury vapor cartridges must be used.
Is Mercury compatible with other metals?
Mercury easily forms alloys known as "amalgams" with many metals, including gold, silver, and aluminum. It should never be stored in or near metal containers that could be compromised by amalgamation.
What should I do in the event of a Mercury spill?
A mercury spill requires immediate and specialized cleanup. Use a mercury spill kit containing sulfur or specialized absorbents. Do not use a standard vacuum cleaner, as this will aerosolize the mercury into the air.
Does BVV provide an SDS for Mercury?
Yes. A comprehensive Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is provided with every shipment and is available on the product page to ensure your facility remains compliant with OSHA safety standards.