Cobalt(II) gluconate
[CAS# 71957-08-9]

Identification

• Name: Cobalt(II) gluconate
• Synonyms: Bis(D-gluconato-O1,O2)cobalt
• Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₂₂CoO₁₄
• Molecular Weight: 449.23
• CAS Registry Number: 71957-08-9
• EC Number: 276-206-1
• SMILES: C([C@H]([C@H]([C@@H]([C@H](C(=O)[O-])O)O)O)O)O.C([C@H]([C@H]([C@@H]([C@H](C(=O)[O-])O)O)O)O)O.[Co+2]

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H317-H332
• Safety Statements: P261-P264-P270-P271-P272-P280-P301+P317-P302+P352-P304+P340-P317-P321-P330-P333+P317-P362+P364-P501

Discovery and Applications

Cobalt(II) gluconate is derived from cobalt(II) ions and gluconic acid to form a compound with the chemical formula C12H22CoO14. The complex forms a stable coordination compound in which the cobalt(II) ion is chelated by the gluconic acid ligand. This special molecular structure gives cobalt(II) gluconate unique properties that make it valuable in a variety of applications.

The primary use of cobalt(II) gluconate is in the medical field. It is used as a mineral supplement due to the important role cobalt plays in the body, especially in the formation of vitamin B12 (cobalamin). Vitamin B12 is essential for neurological function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell production. Doctors prescribe cobalt(II) gluconate supplements in cases of cobalt deficiency, which can manifest in diseases such as pernicious anemia or certain types of neuropathy.

In addition to its nutritional role, cobalt gluconate is also used in pharmaceutical formulations. It is used as a stabilizer and preservative in certain injectable drugs and as a colorant in certain oral preparations. Its ability to form stable complexes with ligands contributes to its usefulness in maintaining the integrity and efficacy of drug products.

Cobalt gluconate is used as a micronutrient supplement in agriculture, especially livestock. It is added to animal feed to prevent cobalt deficiency that leads to decreased food intake and growth rate in ruminants. In this case, cobalt gluconate ensures optimal health and productivity of livestock.

Cobalt gluconate is used as a catalyst in a variety of industrial processes, including the production of polyester fibers and certain chemical syntheses. Its catalytic properties facilitate reactions essential in the manufacture of polymers and other organic compounds.

In electroplating applications, cobalt (II) gluconate is used as an electrolyte additive. It helps deposit a cobalt coating on the substrate, providing corrosion resistance and enhancing the durability of the metal surface.

While cobalt (II) gluconate has many benefits, safety and environmental impacts must be considered. Proper handling and disposal are essential to prevent environmental contamination. Regulatory guidelines ensure that its use in pharmaceuticals and other applications meets strict safety standards to minimize potential risks.

Ongoing research on cobalt (II) gluconate aims to explore new applications and enhance existing uses. Advances in chemistry and materials science will reveal more potential, especially in areas such as nanotechnology and renewable energy technologies where cobalt compounds play a key role.

References

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