Chemical Name: Copper(II) Chloride Dihydrate
Common Synonyms: Cupric chloride, Copper dichloride dihydrate
Chemical Formula: CuCl2·2H2O
Appearance: Blue-green crystalline solid
Odor: Odorless
CAS Number: 10125-13-0
Acute Hazards: Skin, eye, and respiratory irritation; toxic if ingested
Physical Hazards: Not readily combustible but releases toxic fumes when heated
GHS Classification: Acute Toxicity (oral, dermal, inhalation), Skin/Eye Irritation, Hazardous to aquatic environment
Pictograms: Skull and crossbones, exclamation mark, environment (fish and tree)
Signal Word: Danger
Copper(II) Chloride Dihydrate: Typically over 98%
Impurities: Minor levels of other copper salts or inorganic chlorides, depending on manufacturer
Molecular Weight: 170.48 g/mol
Inhalation: Remove to fresh air, seek medical attention if coughing or breathing problems arise
Skin Contact: Wash immediately with plenty of water and soap
Eye Contact: Rinse with copious quantities of water for several minutes, remove lenses if present, seek professional help if irritation persists
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting, drink plenty of water, consult a physician quickly
Suitable Extinguishing Media: Water spray, dry chemical, foam, carbon dioxide. Do not use high-pressure water jets
Hazardous Combustion Products: Toxic copper fumes, hydrogen chloride gas
Protective Equipment: Full protective gear, including self-contained breathing apparatus, is critical for anyone tackling a fire involving this chemical
Fire Hazards: Releases hazardous gases on heating; confinement may cause rupture or explosion of containers
Personal Precautions: Wear gloves, safety goggles, and dust mask to reduce exposure
Environmental Considerations: Prevent large amounts from entering drains or waterways; copper salts are highly toxic to aquatic organisms
Cleanup Methods: Scoop up spilled crystals with minimal dust, collect residue, and place in chemical waste container for proper disposal
Safe Handling: Use in well-ventilated area, avoid dust generation, keep containers tightly sealed when not in use
Avoid Contact: Keep away from food, beverages, and incompatible chemicals like strong acids and oxidizing agents
Storage: Dry area, ambient temperature, tightly closed, and away from direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and heat sources
Engineering Controls: Good local ventilation in work areas, fume hoods for small-scale experiments
Eye Protection: Safety goggles recommended
Skin Protection: Laboratory gloves; lab coats, long sleeves
Respiratory Protection: If dust or vapors develop, use approved particulate filter respirator
Hygiene Practices: Wash face and hands after handling, do not eat or drink in chemical handling areas
Appearance: Blue-green, crystal or powder
Odor: Odorless
Solubility in Water: Highly soluble
Melting Point: Decomposes before boiling, loses water at about 100°C
Specific Gravity: About 2.54
pH: Acidic solution in water
Reactivity: Reacts with strong oxidizers, acids, bases
Chemical Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions, decomposes on heating, releases noxious gases
Incompatible Materials: Ammonia, metals, strong reducing agents
Hazardous Decomposition Products: Copper oxide, hydrochloric acid, chlorine gas possible at high temperatures
Possible Routes of Exposure: Inhalation, ingestion, skin and eye contact
Acute Effects: Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, liver or kidney damage possible with significant ingestion
Chronic Effects: Prolonged exposure can cause skin eruptions, hair discoloration, or nasal ulceration
LD50 (oral, rat): Ranges from 140 to 584 mg/kg, pointing to significant toxicity
Sensitization: Rare but can happen in sensitive persons
Aquatic Toxicity: Highly toxic, can kill fish and other water life at low concentrations
Persistence and Degradability: Copper compounds do not break down easily in the environment
Bioaccumulation: Tends to build up in aquatic organisms, raising concerns for ecosystem health
Disposal Methods: Follow local, regional, and national regulations; never dump into drains or the environment
Contaminated Packaging: Clean thoroughly before recycling or dispose of as hazardous waste
Advice: Involve a licensed chemical disposal company for large quantities or uncertain situations
UN Number: UN2802
Proper Shipping Name: Copper Chloride
Hazard Class: 6.1 (Toxic substances)
Packing Group: III
Transport Labels: Toxic substance label required
Special Precautions: Keep container tightly sealed, avoid moisture, store away from incompatible substances
Workplace Safety: OSHA, NIOSH, and country-specific laws limit exposure and require safety measures
Environmental Rules: Classified as hazardous for aquatic life, must adhere to wastewater and discharge regulations
Right-to-Know Regulations: Listed under local and international chemical inventories, subject to reporting requirements in many regions