Copper Turnings Extra Pure
Copper Turnings Extra Pure are thin, spiral-shaped shavings of elemental copper, produced from high-purity metal and widely used in laboratory applications requiring clean, reactive metal surfaces. Their large surface area makes them ideal for redox reactions, hydrogen generation experiments, and the preparation of copper salts through acid reactions. In educational and research settings, they are preferred for demonstrations involving displacement reactions and metal activity series studies. The extra pure grade guarantees minimal contamination, ensuring accurate and reproducible results. To prevent oxidation and maintain reactivity, copper turnings should be stored in dry, airtight containers.
Primary Uses
Reactant in Inorganic Synthesis
Used to prepare copper salts (e.g., copper nitrate, copper sulfate) by reacting with acids like nitric or sulfuric acid.
Demonstrations of Redox Chemistry
Ideal for showing metal displacement reactions, such as copper replacing less reactive metals from solutions (or being replaced by more reactive ones).
Electrochemical Experiments
Employed as electrodes in galvanic and electrolytic cells to demonstrate oxidation at the anode or reduction at the cathode.
Metal Recovery Studies
Used in precipitation reactions to recover other metals (e.g., silver or mercury) from their ionic solutions.
Secondary Uses
Thermal Conductivity & Heat Transfer Experiments
Because of its high thermal conductivity, it’s used to demonstrate metallic heat conduction.
Teaching Tool in Reagent Purity or Metal Identification
Helpful in qualitative tests for identifying pure metals or checking reaction completeness.
Support for Organic Reaction Catalysis (when activated)
Though less common than copper powder, cleaned or activated turnings may act as mild catalysts in some organic coupling reactions.
Study of Metal Surface Reactions
Used to study surface oxidation, passivation, or acid etching effects under controlled conditions.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name: Copper (turnings)
CAS Number: 7440-50-8
Chemical Formula: Cu
Molar Mass: 63.55 g/mol
Synonyms: Copper metal shavings, Copper filings, Metallic copper
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
Appearance: Reddish metallic shavings or curled strips
Odor: Odorless
Solubility:
Insoluble in water
Soluble in nitric acid and hot concentrated sulfuric acid
Melting Point: ~1083 °C
Boiling Point: ~2562 °C
Electrical Conductivity: Excellent
Thermal Conductivity: Excellent
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification:
H302: Harmful if swallowed
H410: Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
Fire Hazard:
Not readily flammable, but fine residues or dust may pose ignition risk
NFPA Ratings:
Health: 1
Flammability: 1
Reactivity: 1
First Aid Measures:
Inhalation (dust): Move to fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms occur
Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with water and soap
Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes
Ingestion: Rinse mouth, do not induce vomiting, get medical help
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions:
Store in a dry, cool, ventilated space
Keep away from strong oxidizing agents
Handling Advice:
Avoid generating fine dust when handling or machining
Use protective gloves and eye protection
Container Recommendations: Closed, labeled metal or plastic containers
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
EINECS Number: 231-159-6
REACH Status: Registered
UN Number: Not regulated for transport in solid metal form
6. Applications in Laboratory & Industry
Laboratory Use:
Common reagent in redox and displacement reactions
Used in preparation of copper salts (e.g., copper(II) nitrate)
Ideal for reactions where pure solid copper is required
Other Uses:
Electrochemistry experiments
Alloy and metallurgy demonstrations
Thermal conductivity studies
PPE Required:
Lab coat
Safety goggles
Nitrile gloves
Handling:
Handle with clean, dry tools to avoid oxidation
Avoid contact with acids and oxidizers
Wash hands after handling
Storage:
Store in labeled, sealed containers
Keep in a dry environment to prevent corrosion or patina formation
Separate from strong acids and oxidizers
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
Not expected to be hazardous in solid form
Move to fresh air if exposed to metal fumes (e.g., during heating)
Skin Contact:
Wash thoroughly with soap and water
Seek attention if irritation occurs
Eye Contact:
Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes
Get medical advice if irritation persists
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth
Not expected to be toxic in small amounts, but seek medical attention
FIREFIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability: Not flammable in turnings form
Explosion Risk: None in normal conditions
Extinguishing Media:
Use dry powder, sand, or foam
Water or COâ‚‚ are typically safe but avoid with nearby reactive chemicals
Firefighter Protection:
Standard protective equipment