Cupric Sulphate Anhydrous
Cupric Sulphate Anhydrous (Copper(II) sulfate, anhydrous form) is a blue to green crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water. It is an inorganic compound consisting of copper, sulfur, and oxygen with the formula CuSO₄. Unlike its hydrated counterpart (CuSO₄·5H₂O), the anhydrous form contains no water molecules. It is widely used in agriculture, industry, and chemical manufacturing due to its fungicidal, algicidal, and chemical reactivity properties. The compound serves as a precursor to many copper salts and catalysts.
Cupric Sulphate Anhydrous Uses
Primary UsesÂ
Agriculture
- Used as a fungicide and algaecide for crops to control fungal diseases such as mildew, blight, and root rot.
- Acts as a micronutrient fertilizer supplement providing copper, essential for plant metabolism and growth.
- Used in animal feed as a trace mineral additive for copper deficiency prevention.
Chemical Industry
- Utilized as a raw material for the manufacture of other copper compounds such as copper salts and catalysts.
- Used in chemical laboratories for reagent preparation and analytical tests, including Fehling’s and Benedict’s solutions for sugar detection.
- Employed as a mordant in dyeing and printing textiles.
Secondary UsesÂ
Water Treatment
- Applied as an algicide to control algae growth in water bodies, reservoirs, and industrial cooling systems.
Electroplating
- Used as an electrolyte component in copper plating baths to deposit copper metal coatings.
Veterinary Medicine
- Included in certain topical antiseptic and antimicrobial formulations for livestock.
Pigment Production
Acts as a pigment in ceramics, paints, and inks due to its distinctive blue color.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Copper(II) sulfate
- Common/Trade Name: Cupric Sulphate Anhydrous, Copper(II) sulfate anhydrous
- CAS Number: 7758-98-7
- HS Code: 2833.29.00
- Molecular Formula: CuSOâ‚„
- Synonyms:
- Copper sulfate
- Blue vitriol (typically for hydrated form)
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Crystalline powder
- Color & Odor: Blue-green; odorless
- Melting Point: Decomposes at 110°C (loses water if hydrated)
- Boiling Point: Not applicable (decomposes on heating)
- Density: ~3.6 g/cm³
- Solubility:
- Highly soluble in water (specially hydrated form)
- Insoluble in ethanol and other organic solvents
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions; hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from air)
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Acute toxic, harmful if swallowed or inhaled; hazardous to aquatic life
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 2
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL = 1 mg/m³ (as Cu)
- Toxicity: Toxic if ingested; may cause skin and respiratory irritation
- Reactivity: Stable, but reacts with strong acids and bases
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a tightly closed container, in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from incompatible substances like strong reducing agents.
- Container Type: Polyethylene or glass containers preferred to avoid corrosion.
- Shelf Life: Typically 3-5 years if stored properly.
- Special Handling: Use gloves, safety goggles, and dust masks to prevent inhalation and skin contact. Avoid moisture exposure.
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: Not approved for direct food contact; used in agriculture under regulated conditions.
- REACH Status: Registered and regulated.
- Transportation: Classified as hazardous material (Class 6.1 toxic substances) with proper labeling.
- Waste Disposal: Dispose according to local hazardous waste regulations; avoid environmental contamination.
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Highly toxic to aquatic organisms; avoid release into waterways.
- Persistence: Degrades in environment but copper ions may persist.
- Bioaccumulation: Potential to bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms.
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic; toxic effects mainly due to copper toxicity.
Biodegradability: Not applicable (inorganic compound).
-
Safety Handling Precautions
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Chemical-resistant gloves
- Protective goggles
- Dust mask or respirator for powder handling
Handling Measures:
- Avoid dust generation and inhalation
- Use in well-ventilated areas
- Prevent contact with skin and eyes
Storage Measures:
- Keep container sealed and dry
- Store away from incompatible chemicals
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke in the work area
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move victim to fresh air; seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur.
- Skin Contact: Wash affected area with plenty of water; remove contaminated clothing; seek medical care if irritation persists.
- Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; seek immediate medical attention.
- Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth and seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable, but may decompose on heating producing toxic fumes.
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚ extinguishers.
- Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective gear and respiratory protection.
- Decomposition Products: Copper oxides, sulfur oxides, and toxic fumes.