Cupric Oxide Extra Pure
SHORT DESCRIPTION
Cupric Oxide Extra Pure is a black, fine powder extensively used in laboratory settings as a stable, high-purity source of copper in oxidation state +2. It is commonly applied in organic synthesis, inorganic reactions, and thermal decomposition studies, as well as in qualitative and quantitative analysis of copper. Its thermal stability also makes it suitable for ceramic glazing and as a precursor in catalyst preparation. This extra pure grade ensures low impurity levels, essential for accurate experimental results and reproducible data in both educational and research laboratories. It should be stored in a tightly sealed container away from moisture and strong acids.
USES
Primary Uses
- Precursor in Inorganic Synthesis
- Used to prepare other copper salts and complexes via acid-base or redox reactions.
- Reacts with mineral acids (like HCl or H₂SO₄) to yield CuCl₂, CuSO₄, etc.
- Oxidizing Agent
- Functions as a mild oxidizer in reactions involving organic compounds, particularly in combustion or thermal degradation tests.
- Black Pigment in Ceramics & Glass
- Added to glazes in lab-scale ceramic work to produce green to black coloration depending on firing conditions.
- High-Temperature Experiments
- Utilized in thermal decomposition and catalytic oxidation studies due to its thermal stability.
Secondary Uses
- Analytical Chemistry
- Acts as a reference oxide in oxide-reduction titrations.
- Occasionally used in oxygen determination experiments via reduction to copper metal.
- Material Science & Surface Coatings
- Investigated for semiconducting, photocatalytic, and antifouling properties in lab-scale studies.
- Demonstration Experiments
- Demonstrates metal oxide behavior, reduction to elemental copper, and reaction with acids in educational labs.
KEY ATTRIBUTES
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Cupric Oxide
- Common Name: Copper(II) Oxide
- CAS Number: 1317-38-0
- Chemical Formula: CuO
- Molar Mass: 79.55 g/mol
- Grade: Extra Pure (Laboratory/Reagent grade)
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Appearance: Black fine powder
- Odor: Odorless
- Solubility:
- Insoluble in water
- Soluble in acids (e.g., HCl, HNO₃)
- Melting Point: ~1,200°C
- Boiling Point: Decomposes
- Density: ~6.3 g/cm³
- Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification:
- ⚠️ Warning
- H302: Harmful if swallowed
- H319: Causes serious eye irritation
- H332: Harmful if inhaled
- H410: Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 2
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 0
- First Aid Measures:
- Inhalation: Remove to fresh air; seek medical help if breathing difficulty persists
- Skin Contact: Wash with water and soap
- Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth and seek medical attention immediately
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
- Store in tightly sealed containers
- Keep in cool, dry, and well-ventilated place
- Protect from incompatible substances like strong acids and reducing agents
- Handling Advice:
- Avoid dust generation and inhalation
- Use personal protective equipment (PPE): gloves, goggles, lab coat
- Work in fume hood when dust is present
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- EINECS Number: 215-269-1
- UN Number: Not regulated for transport
- REACH Status: Registered
6. Applications in Laboratory
- Primary Use:
- Precursor in the synthesis of copper salts and compounds
- Other Uses:
- Catalyst in organic reactions
- Oxidizing agent
- Pigment in ceramics and glass
- Component in thermite reactions for metal reduction
- Used in chemical analysis and educational labs
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
- PPE Required:
- Lab coat
- Nitrile or neoprene gloves
- Safety goggles or face shield
- Use of fume hood is recommended during weighing or heating
- Handling:
- Avoid inhaling dust; handle with care to prevent dispersion
- Do not ingest or allow contact with skin or eyes
- Use dedicated spatulas and avoid contamination
- Storage:
- Store in tightly sealed containers
- Keep in a dry, cool, and ventilated area
- Avoid storing near strong acids or reducing agents
FIRST AID MEASURES
- Inhalation:
- Move person to fresh air
- Seek medical advice if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact:
- Wash thoroughly with soap and water
- Remove contaminated clothing
- Eye Contact:
- Rinse cautiously with water for at least 15 minutes
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth with water
- Do not induce vomiting
- Seek immediate medical help
FIREFIGHTING MEASURES
- Flammability: Non-combustible
- Hazards: Emits toxic fumes of copper oxides if heated excessively
- Extinguishing Media:
- Use suitable extinguishing agents for surrounding fire (dry powder, foam, CO₂)
- Avoid water if material is hot to prevent steam pressure build-up
- Firefighter Protection:
- Wear protective suit and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)