Copper Hydroxide Extra Pure
Copper Hydroxide Extra Pure is a finely powdered, blue-green compound used in laboratory settings for analytical, inorganic, and qualitative chemistry applications. Its high purity makes it ideal for precipitation reactions, synthesis of copper-based compounds, and studies involving hydroxide ion behavior. In educational labs, it demonstrates typical base-metal hydroxide characteristics, such as low solubility and reactivity with acids to form copper salts. Due to its instability under light and air, it should be handled with care and stored in well-sealed, light-resistant containers to maintain its integrity for reliable experimental outcomes.
Primary Uses
Precursor for Other Copper Compounds
Used to prepare copper salts (e.g., copper sulfate, copper acetate) through controlled acid reactions.
Analytical Chemistry Reagent
Employed in qualitative analysis for detecting reducing sugars (e.g., in Fehling’s and Benedict’s tests after formation of cupric ions).
Base for Synthesis in Inorganic Chemistry
Used in the formation of coordination complexes and as a source of Cu²⁺ ions in controlled reactions.
Demonstration of Double Displacement Reactions
Commonly used in teaching labs to show precipitation reactions (e.g., copper sulfate + sodium hydroxide → Cu(OH)₂).
Secondary Uses
Pigment Precursor in Material Science Studies
Studied in synthesis of cupric oxide (CuO) through thermal decomposition for use in ceramics and pigments.
Model Compound in Coordination Chemistry
Investigated for its geometry and behavior in ligand binding experiments and spectroscopy studies.
Demonstrations in pH-Dependent Solubility
Shows amphoteric behavior: dissolves in strong acids and bases, useful for pH and solubility teaching.
Electrochemical Research
Sometimes used to prepare copper electrodes or for redox studies involving Cu(II)/Cu(I) transitions.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name: Copper(II) Hydroxide
CAS Number: 20427-59-2
Chemical Formula: Cu(OH)₂
Molar Mass: 97.56 g/mol
Synonyms: Cupric hydroxide, Copper dihydroxide
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
Appearance: Blue to bluish-green fine powder
Odor: Odorless
Solubility:
Insoluble in water
Soluble in acids and ammonium hydroxide
Decomposition: Decomposes on heating to copper(II) oxide and water
Stability: Stable under normal laboratory conditions
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification:
⚠️ Warning
H302: Harmful if swallowed
H315: Causes skin irritation
H319: Causes serious eye irritation
H410: Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
NFPA Ratings:
Health: 2
Flammability: 0
Reactivity: 0
First Aid Measures:
Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical advice if symptoms persist
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water
Eye Contact: Flush with water for 15 minutes; seek medical attention
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek immediate medical help
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions:
Store in tightly sealed containers
Keep in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place
Protect from heat and incompatible substances (e.g., acids, ammonium salts)
Shelf Life: Long if kept dry and sealed
Container Recommendations: Use plastic or glass containers
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Hazard Symbols:
EINECS Number: 243-815-9
REACH Status: Registered
UN Number: Not classified as hazardous for transport
6. Applications in Laboratory & Industry
Laboratory Use:
Reagent for synthesis and analytical chemistry
Intermediate in copper salt preparation
Other Uses:
Fungicide and algicide in agriculture
Pigment in ceramics and glass
Precursor for catalysts and other copper compounds
PPE Required:
Lab coat
Nitrile or neoprene gloves
Safety goggles
Dust mask or use fume hood for powder handling
Handling:
Handle in a well-ventilated space or under a fume hood
Avoid dust generation and inhalation
Prevent skin and eye contact
Do not ingest
Storage:
Store in a tightly closed container
Keep in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area
Avoid contact with acids (releases toxic copper salts)
Keep away from heat and incompatible substances
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
Move to fresh air
Seek medical attention if breathing becomes difficult
Skin Contact:
Wash immediately with soap and water
Remove contaminated clothing
Get medical help if irritation persists
Eye Contact:
Flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes
Seek medical attention promptly
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth thoroughly
Do not induce vomiting
Seek immediate medical help
Copper compounds can be toxic if swallowed
FIREFIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability: Not flammable
Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce toxic metal fumes (copper oxides)
Suitable Extinguishing Media:
Use any appropriate method for surrounding fire (dry powder, foam, CO₂, water spray)
Firefighter Protection:
Wear full protective gear and SCBA