I don't have an empty can to collect azotic acid and I don't have enough money to buy one if there were any available for sale. I have gone back to the capsule and collected full cans, opened them and fed them to my character; that doesn't work. Please help because I am stymied and want to continue this fun game.

Another gamer had this problem.

Check the forest at center of the area. The items thrown from the shuttle are found there.
Also check the inside of the shuttle to see if it was left there.

This isn't much of an answer, I'd like to say X marks the spot... but,

Have you found all the items that were jettisoned from the capsule during landing?
If I remember correctly,the items were scattered over the 5 distinct areas with the plants on the plateau that need to be explored.
If I remember correctly the positioning of items was random at the start of the adventure, so you never knew exactly where things would turn up. Just keep a very sharp eye out!
Make sure you have discovered and studied the plant info and know how to subdue them before exploring. And look out for aliens popping up!
Hope that helps!

Thanks, lily.

Thank you. I went back to the forest center and found it. I am on track again.

Glad you're progressing again.