Many thanks to you all for such a high quality entry.
I can't possibly mention all the outstanding clues as there were so many.
I eventually opted for Fieryjack's subtractive at post 29.
Amyls or borates? Don't mess around here.
The Clueless baton is yours, Fieryjack.
Keeping up the chemical laboratory theme, your prize is the incomparable Tom Lehrer.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcS3NOQnsQM
AB