You're being pedantic but not actually using a common definition of chemical. Perhaps "chemical substance" might apply. AOED definition of chemical: a compound

You're being pedantic but not actually using a common definition of chemical. Perhaps "chemical substance" might apply. AOED definition of chemical: a compound or substance that has been purified or prepared, especially artificially: _never mix disinfectant with other chemicals | controversy arose over treatment of apples with this chemical._