The chemistry forum is not empty but this may appear to be the case. This is because content related to drug chemistry is restricted. Discussion of the decision to impose these restrictions are found here. As I hope you will appreciate much of the content discussed in the chemistry forum is both technically specialized and potentially hazardous. It is the firm opinion of the forum staff that members who lack a basic grounding in chemistry but are nonetheless highly interested in the results of chemical research are most likely to underestimate or misunderstand implicit hazards and disseminate inaccurate (often second or third-hand) information. While the content is presented for informational purposes only we have no desire for any amateur chemists to harm themselves or others should they decide to act upon the presented information. For these reasons the chemistry forum was deemed unsuitable for open access.

So how do I gain access to the chemistry forum?

To gain access to the chemistry forum, members are asked to demonstrate that they have a passable working knowledge of basic chemistry. This is done by creating a thread in the Access Applications sub-forum discussing an aspect of general chemistry. This should be unrelated to drug synthesis and ideally pitched at a level where even those without a grounding in chemistry might learn something from it. Some ideas and suggestions on how to construct such posts can be found in the Guidelines thread. Other threads for which access has been approved can also be found in the Access Applications forum and will give you an idea of what is involved. Be prepared to answer questions; we actively encourage members to do this as it helps to establish whether a member really understands what they have posted and didn't just plagiarize. Once the panel of several reviewers are happy that a member has a grounding in chemistry, access to the chemistry forum will be approved.

The level of chemistry expected is not particularly high and we do not expect all contributors to be Nobel prize winning chemists. We are of the opinion that if the information in the chemistry forum would be understandable and useful to a member that they are already proficient enough in chemistry to apply for access if they put a bit of time and effort into their application. Contributions can be quite basic provided they still demonstrate some understanding of chemistry, though obviously thoughtfully selected and thorough contributions are very welcome. The system is in place mainly to ensure members are proficient enough in chemistry that they will appreciate the hazards involved, and therefore are unlikely to be placed at any undue risk by virtue of having access to the content and discussion in the chemistry forum. Additionally we are looking to see if members are willing to contribute, get involved in discussion and support their statements with objective materials. These attributes are all essential for maintaining the high quality of information in the chemistry section.

Donating members also have viewing access to the chemistry forum.

Please also bear in mind is that self-incrimination or incrimination of others relating to manufacturing is against the forum rules and must be avoided throughout the forum. Also be aware that deliberately posting drug chemistry content in the wrong forum because you do not have access to the chemistry forum is frowned upon and will likely result in deletion of the content, negative reputation ratings and/or infractions.