Product Overview
Back in the 70's mercury was in every American home where several grams' worth was to be found in every thermometer. The EPA came down hard on the sale and transport of mercury when it was found at alarming levels in the environment; not due to broken thermometers so much as poor industrial practices. The threat of stiff fines sharply curtailed its use outside of industry and the metal has practically vanished from consumer goods except for trace amounts in fluorescent lighting where adequate substitutes were never found.
The big danger with mercury concerns its disposal. Carelessly tossed on the ground it will eventually reach the water table where it combines with acids to form very harmful compounds that can pollute large areas and making cleanup a nightmare. Restricted to laboratory use, or carefully curated by an elements collector, this remains a mesmerizingly beautiful metal without equal.
International shipping on mercury varies by country but in most cases small quantities should be permitted.
Ps. No, there’s no such thing as “red mercury”, stop asking. Sheesh. {insert unhappy emoji here}
Domestic deliveries will be sent by surface mail to comply with federal regulations. Note additional options for this element on the Ampules section