In the chemical industry, precise identification of substances is paramount for safety, regulation, and successful procurement. The Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) Registry Number, commonly known as a CAS number, serves as a unique, unambiguous identifier for chemical substances. For any professional involved in chemical procurement, understanding the significance of CAS numbers is fundamental.

Each CAS number is a string of digits, separated by hyphens, that uniquely identifies a specific chemical compound. For instance, 3,4,5-tris[[11-[(1-oxo-2-propen-1-yl)oxy]undecyl]oxy]-benzoic acid is identified by CAS No: 210822-61-0. This standardization is critical when you need to purchase chemical intermediates, as it eliminates confusion and ensures you are ordering the exact substance required for your applications.

When communicating with chemical manufacturers or suppliers, especially those based internationally like many in China, referencing the correct CAS number is the most efficient way to specify a product. This accuracy prevents misinterpretation of chemical names, which can sometimes be complex or vary in nomenclature. It guarantees that both the buyer and the supplier are referring to the same chemical entity, be it a common reagent or a highly specialized intermediate.

For procurement managers and R&D scientists, using CAS numbers in product searches and inquiries significantly improves the accuracy and speed of sourcing. It allows for straightforward comparison of products from different suppliers and ensures that the materials ordered align perfectly with research protocols or manufacturing specifications. Always verify the CAS number when requesting quotes or samples from chemical suppliers to ensure you are getting the right product.