Hobby chemists
Is doing chemistry at home possible today? Sarah Houlton finds out
Hobby chemistry has a rich history, from William Perkin synthesising mauveine at home in the 1850s to the middle of the 20th century and the wide availability of chemistry sets and chemical compounds. But in today’s risk-averse culture, has an awareness of health and safety removed the chance for people to pursue chemistry in their own home or gardens?