Cupric chromate basic

Cupric chromate basic refers to basic copper(II) chromate compounds, such as CuCrO₄·Cu(OH)₂, forming yellow, copper-red, chocolate-brown, or lilac crystals that are insoluble in water but soluble in acids like nitric acid.​

Identity and Composition

Chemical name: Basic cupric chromate (e.g., copper chromate monohydroxide).​

Molecular formula: Variable, e.g., CrCuH₂O₄ or CuCrO₄·Cu(OH)₂; molecular weight ~181.55 g/mol for neutral form.​

Related forms: Decomposes to copper chromite (Cu₂Cr₂O₅, black powder) above 400 °C.​

Physical Properties

Appearance: Crystals ranging from yellow to brown/lilac depending on hydroxide ratio.​

Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in acids; loses water at ~260 °C.​

Density: Not consistently specified; related copper chromite ~5.42 g/cm³.​

Typical Uses

Basic cupric chromate serves as a precursor for copper chromite catalysts in hydrogenation, dehydrogenation, and organic synthesis (e.g., furfural to furfuryl alcohol), pigments, and burn rate modifiers in propellants.​

Handling and Safety

Highly toxic (chromium VI compound), carcinogenic, oxidizing solid; avoid inhalation, skin contact, and environmental release. Store sealed; handle with PPE.​

For catalog description: “Cupric chromate basic, CuCrO₄·Cu(OH)₂, yellow-brown crystals, insoluble in water, decomposes >400 °C to chromite, pigment/catalyst precursor; highly toxic/oxidizing.”