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Frequently Asked Questions about Surplus, Off-Spec and Expired Chemicals

Below are answers to common questions from buyers and sellers of industrial chemical raw materials in South Africa.

1. What does Nimex do?

We help companies convert surplus or expired chemical stock into value by finding suitable industrial buyers across South Africa.

Rather than disposing of usable material, we connect it with manufacturers who can use it in applications such as paints, coatings, adhesives, cleaning chemicals, and lubricants.

2. Do you buy expired chemicals?

Yes — we specialise in surplus and expired chemical raw materials.

Many products remain usable for industrial applications even after their stated shelf life. We assess each opportunity based on the product type, condition, and potential end use.

3. What quantities do you deal with?

We typically work with bulk quantities, but we assess each opportunity on a case-by-case basis.

Even smaller quantities (for example 25 kg) can sometimes be viable depending on the product and demand.

4. What types of chemicals do you handle?

We focus on industrial chemical raw materials used in manufacturing across a wide range of industries, including:

  • Paints and coatings

  • Adhesives and sealants

  • Cleaning chemicals

  • Lubricants and oils

  • Plastics and polymers

Our stock can include solvents, acids, resins, additives, and other industrial raw materials.

Because we deal in surplus and expired stock, the product range varies significantly — if you are unsure, we recommend sending us a list for assessment.

We do not deal in finished consumer products.

5. Do you handle pharmaceutical or food-grade products?

We do not supply into pharmaceutical, food, or cosmetic applications.

However, some materials originally produced for these sectors may still have value in industrial applications.

For example, a pharmaceutical-grade raw material may no longer be suitable for medical use but could still be used in coatings, adhesives, or cleaning products.

6. How do you ensure the product is suitable?

Customers are responsible for confirming suitability for their intended use.

We encourage testing and evaluation, and we allow a 7-day period after delivery or collection for the customer to assess the product.

If the product is not suitable and we are notified within this period, we will arrange collection at our cost.

7. Who buys these chemicals?

Our buyers are typically small to mid-sized manufacturers across South Africa.

These companies are often more flexible and able to utilise materials in industrial processes where exact specifications are less critical.

8. Why use Nimex instead of disposing of stock?

Holding surplus or expired stock ties up warehouse space and working capital.

We help companies recover value from this stock by placing it into alternative industrial uses — reducing waste while generating a return.

9. How do I sell my surplus or expired chemicals?

Simply Contact us with a list of available stock, including product names, quantities, and location.

We will assess the material and advise whether there is a market for it.

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