Cupric chloride extra pure

Cupric chloride extra pure is a high-purity form of copper(II) chloride (CuCl₂), typically ≥99% assay, available as yellowish-brown anhydrous powder or blue-green dihydrate crystals (CuCl₂·2H₂O), deliquescent and highly soluble in water.​

Identity and Composition

Chemical name: Copper(II) chloride; cupric chloride.​

Molecular formula: CuCl₂ (anhydrous, 134.45 g/mol); CuCl₂·2H₂O (dihydrate, 170.48 g/mol).​

Crystal structure: Monoclinic (anhydrous); orthorhombic (dihydrate).​

Physical Properties

Appearance: Yellowish-brown solid (anhydrous); blue-green crystals (dihydrate).​

Density: 3.386 g/cm³ (anhydrous).​

Melting point: 498 °C (anhydrous); boiling point 993 °C.​

Solubility: Highly soluble in water, ethanol, ammonia; gives green solutions in dilute acid.​

Typical Uses

Extra pure cupric chloride acts as a catalyst in the Wacker process for ethylene to acetaldehyde, in organic/inorganic synthesis, etching copper circuits, wood preservation, fungicides, and as a mordant in dyeing/printing.​

Handling and Safety

Corrosive to skin/eyes/metals, harmful if swallowed/inhaled; strong irritant and possible sensitizer. Store sealed away from moisture; avoid aluminum contact.​

For catalog purposes: “Cupric chloride extra pure, CuCl₂ ≥99%, yellowish-brown powder or blue-green dihydrate, mp 498 °C, highly water-soluble, catalyst/etchant; corrosive irritant.”​