Copper(II) formate hydrate
[CAS# 133386-04-6]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Organometallic compound >> Organic copper
• Name: Copper(II) formate hydrate
• Molecular Formula: C₂H₂CuO₄^.H₂O
• Molecular Weight: 171.60
• CAS Registry Number: 133386-04-6
• EC Number: 629-477-9
• SMILES: C(=O)[O-].C(=O)[O-].O.[Cu+2]

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Hazard Statements: H315-H319-H335
• Precautionary Statements: P261-P305+P351+P338

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335

Discovory and Applicatios

Copper(II) formate hydrate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Cu(HCOO)2·xH2O, where x represents the number of water molecules associated with the copper formate. This compound consists of copper in the +2 oxidation state, coordinated with formate anions (HCOO-) and water molecules. It has been widely studied due to its potential applications in catalysis, materials science, and environmental chemistry.

The discovery of copper(II) formate hydrate dates back to the early 19th century when researchers began investigating the properties of copper salts and their interactions with formic acid. Early studies focused on understanding the various copper-formate compounds and their structures, as well as the role of water molecules in stabilizing these compounds. Over time, copper(II) formate hydrate emerged as a notable member of this group due to its unique characteristics and its ability to participate in various chemical reactions, particularly as a catalyst or intermediate in synthetic chemistry.

The synthesis of copper(II) formate hydrate is typically carried out by reacting copper(II) salts, such as copper sulfate or copper nitrate, with formic acid under controlled conditions. The reaction leads to the formation of copper(II) formate, which can be isolated as a hydrate by carefully adjusting the reaction parameters, such as temperature and solvent. The amount of water present in the final product can vary, depending on the synthesis conditions and the ratio of reactants used. The compound is usually obtained as a blue or green crystalline solid, with the color varying depending on the degree of hydration.

Copper(II) formate hydrate has found a variety of applications in different fields. One of its primary uses is as a catalyst in chemical reactions, particularly in organic synthesis. The copper ion in the compound can act as a Lewis acid, facilitating various reactions such as nucleophilic substitution, oxidation, and reduction. It has been used in the synthesis of a wide range of organic compounds, including alcohols, aldehydes, and ketones. In addition to its catalytic properties, copper(II) formate hydrate has been explored as a catalyst in the conversion of formic acid into hydrogen gas, a process with significant implications for clean energy production.

In materials science, copper(II) formate hydrate has been investigated for its potential use in the synthesis of copper-based materials, such as copper oxide and copper nanoparticles. The compound serves as a precursor for these materials, and its decomposition under appropriate conditions can yield copper oxide, which is of interest for its applications in electronics, energy storage, and catalysis. The ability to control the particle size and morphology of copper-based materials by using copper(II) formate hydrate as a precursor has led to its exploration in various nanotechnology applications.

Another important application of copper(II) formate hydrate is in environmental chemistry, where it has been studied for its ability to remove pollutants from water. Copper(II) formate hydrate has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, making it useful in the treatment of wastewater and the disinfection of water supplies. Additionally, it has been investigated for its potential to capture and store carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, through chemical reactions with CO2. This ability to act as a carbon capture agent could have significant implications for mitigating climate change and reducing the environmental impact of industrial processes.

Despite its usefulness, copper(II) formate hydrate also has certain limitations and potential environmental concerns. The copper ion in the compound can be toxic to aquatic organisms at high concentrations, necessitating careful handling and disposal to prevent environmental contamination. Furthermore, the stability of copper(II) formate hydrate in different environments, particularly in the presence of moisture or high temperatures, can be a limiting factor for some of its applications. Ongoing research is focused on improving the stability and efficiency of copper(II) formate hydrate-based processes, as well as exploring safer alternatives for its use in various industrial and environmental applications.

In conclusion, copper(II) formate hydrate is a versatile compound with a wide range of applications in catalysis, materials science, and environmental chemistry. Its unique properties, including its ability to act as a catalyst and its potential for carbon capture, make it a promising material for future research and development. As studies continue to explore its various applications, copper(II) formate hydrate may play an increasingly important role in the development of new technologies aimed at addressing global challenges such as energy production and environmental protection.