Cupric Sulphate Pentahydrate
Cupric Sulphate Pentahydrate (Copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate) is a bright blue crystalline solid with the chemical formula CuSO₄·5H₂O. It is the hydrated form of copper sulfate and is highly soluble in water. This compound is widely used in agriculture, chemical manufacturing, and laboratory applications due to its fungicidal, algicidal, and micronutrient properties. The pentahydrate form is the most common and commercially available, known for its vivid blue color and versatile reactivity.
Cupric Sulphate Pentahydrate Uses
Primary UsesÂ
Agriculture
- Widely used as a fungicide to control fungal diseases such as downy mildew, blight, and leaf spots in fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants.
- Acts as a copper micronutrient fertilizer to prevent and correct copper deficiency in soil and plants, essential for enzyme function and photosynthesis.
- Employed as a bactericide and algaecide in irrigation water and water reservoirs.
Chemical & Industrial Applications
- Used as a raw material for producing other copper salts, catalysts, and chemicals.
- Utilized in analytical chemistry for Fehling’s and Benedict’s tests to detect reducing sugars.
- Functions as a mordant in textile dyeing and printing processes to fix dyes.
- Applied in electroplating baths for copper deposition.
Secondary UsesÂ
Water Treatment
- Used to control algae growth in ponds, reservoirs, and water treatment facilities, helping maintain water quality.
Veterinary Medicine
- Included in trace mineral premixes for livestock feed to prevent copper deficiency and support overall animal health.
Pigment and Paint Industry
- Serves as a pigment in ceramics, paints, and inks due to its distinctive blue color.
Laboratory Reagent
- Used in research and educational labs for qualitative and quantitative analysis of chemicals.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate
- Common/Trade Name: Cupric Sulphate Pentahydrate, Blue Vitriol
- CAS Number: 7758-99-8
- HS Code: 2833.21.00
- Molecular Formula: CuSO₄·5H₂O
- Synonyms:
- Copper sulfate pentahydrate
- Blue vitriol
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Crystalline solid
- Color & Odor: Bright blue; odorless
- Melting Point: Decomposes at 110°C (loses water molecules)
- Boiling Point: Not applicable (decomposes before boiling)
- Density: ~2.28 g/cm³
- Solubility:
- Highly soluble in water (approx. 316 g/L at 20°C)
- Insoluble in ethanol and other organic solvents
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions; hygroscopic
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Harmful if swallowed; hazardous to aquatic life
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 2
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL = 1 mg/m³ (as Cu)
- Toxicity: Can cause irritation to eyes, skin, and respiratory tract; toxic if ingested in large amounts
- Reactivity: Stable; reacts with strong reducing agents
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances such as strong acids and bases. Keep containers tightly closed.
- Container Type: Polyethylene or glass containers recommended.
- Shelf Life: 3-5 years if stored properly.
- Special Handling: Use PPE to avoid dust inhalation and skin contact; avoid moisture exposure to prevent caking.
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: Not approved for direct food contact; agricultural uses regulated.
- REACH Status: Registered and regulated under EU chemical safety laws.
- Transportation: Classified as hazardous material (Class 6.1 toxic substance) with appropriate labeling.
- Waste Disposal: Dispose in accordance with local hazardous waste regulations; avoid environmental contamination.
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Highly toxic to aquatic organisms; avoid discharge into water bodies.
- Persistence: Copper ions may persist and accumulate in sediments.
- Bioaccumulation: Possible bioaccumulation in aquatic life.
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic; toxicity primarily from copper ions.
Biodegradability: Inorganic compound; not biodegradable but can be immobilized.
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Safety Handling Precautions
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Protective gloves
- Safety goggles
- Dust mask or respirator when handling powder
Handling Measures:
- Avoid inhaling dust and prevent skin and eye contact
- Use in well-ventilated areas
- Prevent spills and moisture exposure
Storage Measures:
- Keep container sealed and dry
- Store away from incompatible materials such as strong reducing agents
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands after handling
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling the product
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if breathing is difficult.
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with water; seek medical care if irritation develops.
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek immediate medical help.
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting; seek emergency medical assistance.
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable; decomposition produces toxic fumes when heated.
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚.
- Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective clothing and breathing apparatus.
- Decomposition Products: Copper oxides, sulfur oxides, and toxic fumes.