Chemistry:

*Disclaimer* Fortscribe believes in the freedom of information.  We DO NOT advocate the usage of the information available on this website for any nefarious purposes.  It is the responsibility of the reader to follow the law, learn and follow any relevant safety precautions and obtain any necessary legal permits.  Some of the videos linked here contain material that is highly dangerous or ill advised for an untrained chemist.  Although we find this material entertaining or interesting, attempting to follow procedures found here may result in significant personal risk.  The owners of Fortscribe take no responsibility for the actions of one who would use this information for purposes other than reading. You have been warned. 


Delights of Chemistry:

- A wonderful website hosted by the University of Leeds.  It has many demonstrations of a wide variety of chemistry experiments. 


Glassmaking for the Amateur Chemist:

- A piece from 1934 concerning the making of glass for an amateur using only household supplies. 


Perchlorate Cells:

- A piece that thoroughly covers preparation of perchlorate through electrolytic means.  Perchlorate is a strong oxidizing agent that used to be valued for its important role in flash photography and potent anti-septic qualities.  Magicians may be familiar with its role in parlor magic.  It serves  as the key oxidizing part of various "flash powder" mixtures.  


Preparing Powdered Aluminum:  

- Easy to follow steps for making finely powdered aluminum from aluminum foil. Powdered aluminum is an important component for making certain forms of paint and clay.  Being a potent reducing agent, aluminum powder can be combined with various oxidizing agents to produce brilliant (if not always safe) results.  


Preparing Nitric Acid:  

- This section discusses the industrial manufacture of Nitric Acid.  For the sake of chemistry-enthusiasts, we have also included a demonstration by "Dr. N Butyl Lithium" that will show one how to prepare small amounts of Nitric Acid with commonly available materials.


Preparing Sodium Metal:  

- Video showing preparation of sodium metal by reaction of NaOH with Mg.


Extracting Elemental Iodine:  

- This section explains how to extract elemental iodine with goods available from your local superstore.  Specifically, we have a video that will show you how to use muriatic acid and hydrogen peroxide to precipitate the elemental iodine found in store bought tincture of iodine.   Elemental iodine finds uses in things from radio-imaging to preparation of theatrical "explosives" like Nitrogen-Tri-Iodide. 


Pyrotechnics:

A random assortment of pyrotechnics videos made available thanks to Youtube.  Here you can see a few more "flashy" demonstrations of classic chemistry experiments.  Although Fortscribe wants to spread awareness of various aspects of science, we prefer not to engage in direct discussion of munitions or other dangerous materials.  If you would like to learn my legitimate information about this subject, please peruse a good chemistry library.  If you want to operate on the side of the law, consider getting appropriate licenses through the ATF.   Appropriate classes in law enforcement and civilian explosive use are available to eligible citizens.

Those of you who are interested in the nature of military field chemistry   may also enjoy reading the TM 31-210 Munition Handbook.  We strongly advise you not to follow recipes outlined in so called "Anarchist Cookbooks."