Cupric Sulphate Pentahydrate Extra Pure
SHORT DESCRIPTION
Cupric Sulphate Pentahydrate Extra Pure is a vibrant blue crystalline compound widely used in laboratories for its high solubility and consistent copper ion content. It is essential in analytical chemistry for Fehling’s and Benedict’s solutions, in electrochemistry for plating and battery experiments, and as a biological nutrient in microbiological media. The pentahydrate form offers ease of handling and precise formulation in aqueous solutions. This extra pure grade ensures exceptional purity, making it suitable for teaching labs, research applications, and controlled experimental procedures. Store in a sealed container away from heat and moisture to maintain its crystalline integrity.
USES
Primary Uses
- Classic Analytical Reagent
- Widely used in qualitative tests (e.g., Benedict’s, Fehling’s, and Biuret tests) due to the distinct blue Cu²⁺ ion.
- Hydrated Mass Standard
- Preferred in labs where consistent hydration ensures reliable molar calculations (known 5H₂O content makes it predictable by weight).
- Educational Demonstrations
- Used to show crystal growth, hydration-dehydration cycles, and color transitions in copper chemistry.
- Copper Source in Electrochemistry
- Acts as a source of Cu²⁺ ions in electroplating, electrolysis, and galvanic cell experiments.
Secondary Uses
- Colorimetric Reactions
- Its vivid blue color is valuable in visual titrations, color tests, and indicator-style reactions involving copper.
- Thermal Studies
- Dehydration upon heating is used to demonstrate endothermic reactions and study hydrate loss curves.
- Fertilizer & Biocide (non-lab)
- Though not for lab use, it has external roles in fungicides, algicides, and micronutrient fertilizers—included here for general knowledge.
KEY ATTRIBUTES
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Cupric Sulphate Pentahydrate
- Common Name: Copper(II) Sulfate Pentahydrate
- CAS Number: 7758-99-8
- Chemical Formula: CuSO₄·5H₂O
- Molar Mass: 249.68 g/mol
- Grade: Extra Pure (Laboratory/Reagent Grade)
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Appearance: Bright blue crystalline solid
- Odor: Odorless
- Solubility:
- Soluble in water and methanol
- Insoluble in ethanol
- Melting Point: Loses water at ~110 °C
- Density: ~2.28 g/cm³
- pH (5% solution): ~4.0
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions; loses water when heated
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: 1
- First Aid Measures:
- Inhalation: Remove to fresh air; get medical help if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Flush with water for at least 15 minutes
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek immediate medical attention
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
- Keep container tightly closed
- Store in a cool, dry place away from acids and heat
- Protect from moisture and humidity
- Handling Advice:
- Use PPE: gloves, safety goggles, lab coat
- Avoid dust generation and ingestion
- Use in a well-ventilated area or fume hood
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- EINECS Number: 231-847-6
- UN Number: Not regulated for ground transport
- REACH Status: Registered
6. Applications in Laboratory
- Primary Use:
- Widely used in analytical chemistry and education as a qualitative test for reducing sugars and proteins
- Other Uses:
- Standard in redox titrations
- Preparation of Fehling’s and Benedict’s reagents
- Used as a fungicide or algaecide in experimental setups
- Electroplating and crystal growth studies
- Coloring agent for glass and ceramics in teaching labs
- Precursor to other copper salts
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Lab coat
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety goggles
- Use in a ventilated area or fume hood
- Handling Guidelines:
- Avoid inhaling dust or ingesting the crystals
- Avoid contact with eyes and skin
- Hygroscopic – store away from moisture and open air
- Storage Conditions:
- Store in tightly sealed containers
- Keep in a cool, dry place
- Incompatible with strong reducing agents and acids
FIRST AID MEASURES
- Inhalation:
- Move to fresh air
- Get medical advice if symptoms develop
- Skin Contact:
- Rinse with soap and water
- Remove contaminated clothing
- Eye Contact:
- Flush immediately with water for at least 15 minutes
- Seek medical attention
- Ingestion:
- Do not induce vomiting
- Rinse mouth
- Seek immediate medical assistance
FIREFIGHTING MEASURES
- Flammability: Non-flammable
- Hazards: May decompose at high temperatures releasing sulfur oxides and copper fumes
- Extinguishing Media:
- Water spray, dry chemical, foam, or CO₂
- Cool containers with water spray to prevent rupture
- Protective Gear:
- Full protective clothing and SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus)