Copper Chloride

What is Copper Chloride: Copper Chloride is a chemical compound with the chemical formula CUCI2. It is a light brown solid which slowly absorbs moisture to form a blue-green dihydrate. Both the anhydrous and dihydrate form occur naturally. It is also a mild oxidant and decomposes to CUCI and CI2 at 1000 ˚C. It reacts with several metals to produce copper metal or copper(I) chloride with oxidation of the other material.

Use of Copper Chloride: Copper Chloride is used as a catalyst for organic and inorganic reactions, mordant for dyeing and printing textiles, pigment for glass and ceramics, wood preservatives, disinfectant, insecticide, fungicide, and herbicide, and as a catalyst in the production of chlorine from hydrogen chloride. It is also used in the petroleum industry as a purifying agent, in the manufacture of indelible, invisible, laundry marking inks, in photography, in pyrotechnics and to remove lead compounds from petrol and oil.

Copper Chloride Safety: Copper Chloride is a corrosive substance which can severely irritate and burn skin and eyes, irritate the stomach causing salivation, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhea, damage to the liver and kidneys and irritation of nose, throat and lungs causing coughing and wheezing. When using this substance make sure to wear eye protection and a face shield to protect yourself. Another safety precaution is to wear safety googles and protective clothing such as suits, gloves, footwear and headgear. Make sure to always wash your hands carefully before eating, drinking, applying cosmetics, smoking or using the toilet.

Manufacturer: One of the suppliers that manufactures Copper Chloride is a company called “ESPI Metals” located at 1050 Benson Way, Ashland, OR. However, I was unfortunately not able to find how this specific chemical was made in large amounts in factory facilities.