Shelf life of chemical reagents
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The unit has recently received a new batch of chemical reagents at the factory; these include both reference reagents and analytically pure reagents, all of which are in solid form. The production dates range from 2010 to 2017, and in some cases the printing on the production date labels has even worn off. Are there any regulations regarding the shelf life of chemical reagents in this industry? What basis can the buyer use to reject such reagents?
Generally, the standard reagent has a validity period of one year, while others are about two years; it seems there are no clear requirements.
Are there any restrictions regarding whether it is opened or unopened, as well as the storage conditions? So how are the reagents entering the factory inspected? Is it based on the company’s own rules and regulations?
It depends on the physicochemical properties of the reagent itself. Some reagents can be stored indefinitely, such as stable reagents like sodium chloride and potassium sulfate. However, some are also affected by temperature, humidity, and stability, causing changes in their composition and purity. There are also some reagents, such as biochemical reagents and radioactive isotopes, for which the shelf life is strictly limited.
Not everything needs **standards**. Humans have heads not only so that their facial features have a place to sit, but more importantly, so that they can use the brain matter inside the head. If that brain matter isn’t used, it’s better to fill the head with water instead.