If advanced graphene materials are used by lab researchers in your institution or facility, you're likely only vaguely aware of how orders are made. When you're given the responsibility of securing these materials, you'll need to know much more about the materials and the suppliers that you'll be ordering from. Use these graphene purchase suggestions so that the researchers get what they need and you remain within your facility's or institution's budget.

1-Avoid Foreign Suppliers

The first rookie mistake made by well-meaning administrative staff when ordering graphene is that they're so laser-focused on costs that they make other mistakes. For example, if you start seeing low prices for these materials online, you may feel pleased with your good fortune and place an order right away. However, if the company is not domestic, that could lead to trouble.

When ordering graphene or other substances from outside the country, there's a good chance that it may be held at certain points along the shipping route if there isn't adequate documentation. Your institution may also be charged various custom fees before you're cleared to accept your packages. All of this can keep researchers waiting and could affect current studies and tests. Therefore, look at the "about us" section on any company website and verify that you're purchasing from within your country.

2-Verify Type Needed

Graphene is mostly sold as oxide powder or liquid. You might learn that the liquid can be turned into powder and think you'll save the facility money by getting the liquid form for everyone, but this is rarely advised. That's because the conversion process takes time, equipment and tools that your facility doesn't have. Even if it does, researchers may not have sufficient time in their schedules to make this happen. Therefore, verify what type of graphene is being used and desired; only order liquid if you know for sure someone will need it.

3-Check Dates

As soon as the materials arrive, ensure that you look at and make note of expiration dates. Expired goods can still be used, but results of any tests and studies can be skewed or slightly affected because the materials aren't in an optimal state. If you can contact the supplier before purchase and inquire about expiration dates, do so.

With these ordering guidelines, you can secure the materials your institution or facility requires without overspending or having problems. Consult researchers and managers to ensure you're ordering enough for everyone.

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