Copper(II)hydroxide 97+% Pure

What is Copper(II) Hydroxide?

Copper(II) hydroxide is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Cu(OH)₂. It is a blue, crystalline powder that forms when a solution of a copper(II) salt is mixed with an alkaline solution such as sodium hydroxide. This compound is poorly soluble in water and forms a characteristic precipitate in many laboratory reactions.

In nature, copper(II) hydroxide occurs as the mineral spertiniite, but it is almost always synthetically produced for commercial and industrial use. The substance is known for its deep blue color and is often used in demonstrations of chemical reactions or as a precursor for other copper compounds.

Properties of Copper(II) Hydroxide

Copper(II) hydroxide is a solid with an intense blue color. It is practically insoluble in water, but dissolves in acids to form copper salts. When heated, copper(II) hydroxide decomposes into copper(II) oxide (CuO) and water. It has a molar mass of 97.56 g/mol and a density of approximately 3.37 g/cm³. The compound does not have a clear melting point, as it decomposes before melting, typically above 80°C.

Chemical identification of copper(II) hydroxide:

• Chemical formula: Cu(OH)₂

• CAS number: 20427-59-2

• EC number: 243-815-9

Uses and Applications of Copper(II) Hydroxide

Copper(II) hydroxide has various applications across multiple sectors, including agriculture, the chemical industry, education, and electrochemistry.

In agriculture, copper(II) hydroxide is used as a fungicide and bactericide. It is effective against fungal diseases such as mildew and leaf spot on crops like tomatoes, grapes, citrus fruits, and potatoes. It is often an active ingredient in copper-based plant protection products.

In the chemical industry, copper(II) hydroxide serves as a raw material for the production of other copper salts, such as copper sulfate and copper chloride. It is also thermally converted into copper(II) oxide, which is used in catalysis, ceramics, and pigment production.

In laboratories, the compound is used for demonstrations, as a reagent in precipitation reactions, and in the identification of reducing sugars in combination with reagents like Fehling’s or Benedict’s solution.

In electrochemistry, copper(II) hydroxide is being researched as a potential electrode material for batteries and other applications, due to its redox properties.

Safety and Storage

Copper(II) hydroxide must be handled with care. The substance can be harmful if swallowed and causes skin and eye irritation. Additionally, copper(II) hydroxide is highly toxic to aquatic life, and its release into drains or surface water must be strictly avoided.

When handling the substance, protective gloves, safety goggles, and appropriate laboratory clothing should be worn. It should be stored in a tightly sealed container in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated place, away from acids and reducing agents.

The substance falls under Water Hazard Class 2 (WGK 2), which means it is considered hazardous to the aquatic environment.

Important Hazard Statements (H-phrases):

• H302: Harmful if swallowed

• H315: Causes skin irritation

• H319: Causes serious eye irritation

• H330: Fatal if inhaled

• H400: Very toxic to aquatic life

Synonyms of Copper(II) Hydroxide

Copper(II) hydroxide is also known by several other names in Dutch and in various languages:

• Copper hydroxide

• Cu(OH)₂

• Copper dihydroxide

• Copper(2+) hydroxide

• Monohydroxide of copper (obsolete)

• Koper(II)hydroxide (Dutch)

Chemical Properties

• Name: Cupric hydroxide

• Empirical formula: Cu(OH)₂

• Molar mass: 97.56 g/mol

• Density: 3.37 g/cm³

• ADR class: 6.1 II

• WGK: 3

• CAS No.: 20427-59-2

• EC No.: 243-815-9

• UN No.: 3288