Everything You Need to Know About Cuprix Oxide

Everything you need to know about Cupric Oxide

April 30, 2021 Cupric Oxide

One of the most common resources of copper, copper oxide II is used in numerous minerals or multivitamin supplements.

With its tuneable size and desirable properties, this synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles- formed with the combination of carbon and oxygen- is a primary thrust area of the biomedical research domain.

Apart from that, its unique properties, like toughness, ductility, electrical conductivity, the formability of ceramics, luminescent efficiency of semiconductors, and increased strength of metal and alloys, have also contributed to the sudden increase in nanoparticles research.

What is Copper Oxide?

When oxygen is combined with copper, it produces two types of compounds, i.e., copper oxides used in the production of pigments.

Courtesy of its lasting effect, high-temperature resistance, and stable physical and chemical properties, copper oxide is a significant industrial compound. It is insoluble in water and can be dissolved in acids and alkaline solutions.

What are the types of Copper Oxide?

  • Copper oxide (I), also known as cuprous oxide - it’s a reddish powder in appearance
  • Copper oxide (II), also known as cupric oxide - it’s a black powder in appearance

What is Cupric Oxide?

An inorganic compound with the chemical formula- CuO, cupric oxide is one of the two stable copper oxides. Also known as tenorite, copper oxide (II) exists in nature in a black solid form and is mostly insoluble in solvents.

With a melting temperature higher than 1200 °C, it often reacts with acids to form copper salts.

Used as a precursor in various copper-containing products, such as ceramics and wood preservatives, this compound is also found in many mineral or multivitamin supplements as a good source of copper.

In addition, copper oxide (II) is also used as a catalyst in organic synthesis and as an antimicrobial agent in paints and textiles.

How is Cupric Oxide Produced?

Copper oxide (II) is manufactured by pyrometallurgy while extracting copper metal from its ores. The ores are first treated with a mixture of ammonia, oxygen, and ammonium carbonate to generate ammine complexes, which are later extracted from the solids. When these complexes are decomposed with steam, it gives copper oxide (II), i.e., CuO.

For cupric oxide formula, heat copper in the air at approximate 300°C to 800°C: 2 Cu + O2 → 2 CuO

Though it is mainly produced by heating metallic copper at low temperatures, there are some alternative ways to manufacture cupric oxide, i.e., by heating oxygen-containing copper compounds, like carbonate, nitrate, or hydroxide.

What are the Uses or Applications of Cupric Oxide?

Here are some of the prominent cupric oxide uses or applications:

  • As a chromic iron mineral solvent
  • To rinse glasses
  • To produce colors, like: red, green, and blue
  • As a precursor to making rayon
  • To pigment ceramic dye or crystals
  • To polish optical equipment as an abrasive
  • As a desulfurizing agent for oils and petroleum gases
  • As an insecticide due to its microbicidal properties
  • As semiconductors, high-tech super energy conductors, and solar transformations

Why Choose Meghachem Industries?

Equipped with in-depth knowledge and years of experience in this domain, Meghachem is one of the best suppliers of cupric oxide. Meghachem Industries processes and formulates its chemicals by using some premium ingredients procured from the certified and trusted vendors of the market.

When copper is mixed with oxygen, it generates copper oxides (I) & (II). Cuprous oxide is reddish in appearance, while the cupric oxide color is black. Though both compounds have their own significance because of their industrial applications, the cupric oxide is widely in demand because of its remarkable characteristics. If you have any queries, the Get in touch with us!

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