Copper(II) Hydroxide from TCI (product code C3971) is an inorganic compound of divalent copper with the formula Cu(OH)₂. It is typically supplied as a blue to blue-green powder. In the laboratory, copper(II) hydroxide serves as a source of copper ions, as a catalyst precursor, and as a starting material for preparing a range of copper salts and copper oxides. It belongs to the transition element reagents used in catalysis and inorganic chemistry, where copper compounds are widely used in synthesis and materials work.
Researchers choose copper(II) hydroxide because its reactivity is easy to control and it supplies copper without extra anions such as chloride or sulfate. It is a water-insoluble base, so it can be converted into another copper salt simply by reacting it with the matching acid, and no interfering anions are carried into the product. It dissolves in concentrated ammonia solution to form a deep blue tetraamminecopper complex known as Schweizer's reagent, a classic solvent for cellulose. When heated, it decomposes to copper(II) oxide, which makes it a simple route to CuO and to copper-based catalysts.
In Indonesia, this material is useful to laboratories working in inorganic chemistry, catalysis, materials science, and agriculture. University research groups and industrial laboratories use it to prepare their own copper salts, to make copper oxide and supported copper catalysts, and in teaching laboratories to show precipitation, complex formation, and thermal decomposition. Research on copper catalysts for coupling reactions is another area where a clean, anion-free copper source like this one is a practical starting point.
TCI brochures (PDF)
- Metallic Salts 2025-11-06 · p. 9
- Transition Metal Catalysts 2026-04-10 · p. 15
- Copper salt preparation: as a water-insoluble base, it reacts directly with a chosen acid to give the matching copper salt without introducing interfering anions such as chloride or sulfate.
- Catalyst precursor synthesis: it serves as a clean copper source for preparing copper-based catalysts, including those studied in research on copper-catalyzed coupling reactions in organic synthesis.
- Copper(II) oxide preparation: heating decomposes it to CuO, giving laboratories a simple and well-understood route to copper oxide for materials and catalysis work.
- Schweizer's reagent preparation: it dissolves in concentrated ammonia to form the deep blue tetraamminecopper complex, the classic solvent used for dissolving and studying cellulose.
- Teaching and inorganic chemistry demonstrations: its distinctive blue color, precipitation behavior, complex formation with ammonia, and thermal decomposition make it a clear example for chemistry education.
| Brand | TCI (product code C3971) |
|---|---|
| CAS number | 20427-59-2 |
| Molecular formula | — |
| Purity | — |
| Category | Chemistry > Catalysis and Inorganic Chemistry > Transition Elements |
| Pack sizes | see the available options on the product listing |
| Physical form | blue to blue-green powder, formula Cu(OH)₂ |
| Storage | keep tightly closed in a cool, dry place away from acids and heat |
Store copper(II) hydroxide in its original tightly closed container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct heat, because heating decomposes it to copper(II) oxide. Keep it apart from acids and incompatible substances to prevent unintended reactions. Glass or chemically resistant plastic containers with secure closures are suitable. Handle the powder in a fume hood or well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling dust. Wear gloves, safety glasses, and a lab coat. Prevent the material from entering drains, and dispose of waste in line with local regulations. Always check the TCI Safety Data Sheet for hazard details before use.
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