Organic, Pharmaceuticals and Fine Chemicals

Organic chemicals, pharmaceutical and fine chemicals contain carbon as part of their molecular structure. Some products also contain hydrogen and oxygen. There are many different types of organic chemicals, pharmaceutical and fine chemicals. Basic categories include organic chemicals, synthetic chemicals, pharmaceutical chemicals, and specialty fine chemicals. An organic chemical is naturally-occurring and contains compounds such as alcohols, phenols, aldehydes, ketones, and ethers; or elements such as nitrogen, sulphur, silicon, and germanium. Organic chemicals include plant terpenoids and, in some cases, substances such as steroids and antibiotics. Unlike an organic chemical, a synthetic chemical is manufactured in a laboratory. Often, synthetic chemicals are made by a pharmaceutical chemical manufacturer or drug manufacturer to produce over-the-counter (OTC) or prescriptions medications. Common types of pharmaceutical chemicals include insecticides, herbicides and fungicides; food additives, preservatives, flavorings and coatings; and resins and pigments. Specialty fine chemicals are organic, pharmaceutical and fine chemicals such as cleaners and dyes. Important parameters for a specialty fine chemical vary by application.