Product Identification

Product Name

Copper dihydroxide

Synonyms

Blue copper
Comac
Copper dihydroxide
Copper hydrate
Copper hydroxide
Kuprablau

CAS

20427-59-2

Formula

CuH2O2

Molecular Weight

97.56

EINECS

243-815-9

RTECS

GL7600000

RTECS Class

Agricultural Chemical and Pesticide

Merck

12,2709

Beilstein/Gmelin

8816 (G)

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

Blue to blue green gel or light blue crystalline powder.

Solubility in water

2.9 mg/L (25 C)

Density

3.37 g/cm3 (20 C)

Usage

Bactericide, fungicide.

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

Following ingestion and/or prior to gastric evacuation, immediately dilute with 4 to 8 ounces (120 to 240 ml) of milk or water (not to exceed 15 ml/kg in a child). Vomiting is rapid and spontaneous in most patients following ingestion of copper salts. Ipecac is contraindicated after ingestion of caustic copper salts because of the risk of further injury to the gastrointestinal mucosa and the possibility of severe cns changes.

Inhalation

If symptoms develop, move individual away from exposure and into fresh air. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen. Keep person warm and quiet; seek immediate medical attention.

Skin

Remove contaminated clothing. Wash exposed area with soap and water. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention. Launder clothing before reuse.

Eyes

If symptoms develop, immediately move individual away from exposure and into fresh air. Flush eyes gently with water for at least 15 minutes while holding eyelids apart; seek immediate medical attention.

Handling and Storage

Storage

Keep in a cool, dry, dark location in a tightly sealed container or cylinder. Keep away from incompatible materials, ignition sources and untrained individuals. Secure and label area. Protect containers/cylinders from physical damage.

Handling

All chemicals should be considered hazardous. Avoid direct physical contact. Use appropriate, approved safety equipment. Untrained individuals should not handle this chemical or its container. Handling should occur in a chemical fume hood.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

Metal fume fever, wheezing and rales have been reported in workers exposed to fine copper dust. Dyspnea has developed after oral copper exposure. Pulmonary edema and alveolar inflammation have been noted in animals.

Skin

Skin exposure can produce in severe irritation, itching, erythema, dermatitis and eczema; systemic toxicity may result.

Ingestion

Gastroenteritis with vomiting may occur after ingestion of some copper salts. Mucosal erosions, a metallic taste, burning epigastric sensation and diarrhea may also occur.

Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Personal Protection

Chemical splash goggles in compliance with OSHA regulations are advised; however, OSHA regulations also permit other type safety glasses. Whre chemical resistant gloves. To prevent repeated or prolonged skin contact, wear impervious clothing and boots.

Respirators

Use NIOSH/MSHA approved respirator appropriate for exposure of concern.

Exposure Effects

Increased temperature may be noted in some cases. Abnormally low blood pressure may occur. Mental status may be depressed.

Poison Class

3

Fire Fighting Measures

Fire Fighting

Wear a self-contained breathing apparatus in pressure-demand, MSHA/NIOSH (approved or equivalent), and full protective gear. During a fire, irritating and highly toxic gases may be generated by thermal decomposition or combustion. Use agent most appropriate to extinguish fire.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Evacuate area and ventilate. Wear protective equipment. If required, use an inert absrobent. Sweep up and place in an appropriate container for disposal. Wash contaminated surfaces.

Stability and Reactivity

Stability

Stability is dependent on method of prepn; may decomp to black copper oxide on standing few days or on heating.

Incompatibilities

Strong oxidizing agents.