Cupric oxalate

Description

Cupric oxalate is a bluish-white, odorless powder. Molecular weight=153.58. Hazard Identification(based on NFPA-704 M Rating System): Health 1,Flammability 0, Reactivity 1. Insoluble in water

Chemical properties

Cupric oxalate is a bluish-white, odorless powder.

The Uses of Cupric oxalate

As catalyst for organic reactions; as stabilizer for acetylated polyformaldehyde; in anticaries compositions; in seed treatments to repel birds and rodents.

Preparation

Copper(II) oxalate can be prepared by reaction of sodium oxalate with copper(II) salt solutions. Copper(II) oxalate is used as a catalyst in organic reactions and as a stabilizer for acetylated polyformaldehyde.

General Description

Odorless bluish-white solid. Denser than water and insoluble in water. Hence sinks in water. Used as a catalysts for organic reactions.

Air & Water Reactions

Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

Cupric oxalate dissolves in aqueous ammonia and reacts as an acid to neutralize other bases as well. Can serve as a reducing agent in reactions that generate carbon dioxide.

Hazard

Toxic by ingestion; tissue irritant.

Health Hazard

Inhalation causes irritation of nose and throat. Ingestion of very large amounts may produce symptoms of oxalate poisoning; watch for edema of the glottis and delayed constriction of esophagus. Contact with eyes causes irritation.

Fire Hazard

Special Hazards of Combustion Products: Toxic carbon monoxide gas may form in fire.

Potential Exposure

Used as a catalyst for organic reactions and in seed treatment as a repellent for birds and rodents.

First aid

If this chemical gets into the eyes, remove anycontact lenses at once and irrigate immediately for at least15 min, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids. Seek medical attention immediately. If this chemical contacts theskin, remove contaminated clothing and wash immediatelywith soap and water. Seek medical attention immediately. Ifthis chemical has been inhaled, remove from exposure,begin rescue breathing (using universal precautions, including resuscitation mask) if breathing has stopped and CPR ifheart action has stopped. Transfer promptly to a medicalfacility. When this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention. Give large quantities of water and inducevomiting. Do not make an unconscious person vomit.Medical observation is recommended for 24-48 h afterbreathing overexposure, as pulmonary edema may bedelayed. As first aid for pulmonary edema, a doctor orauthorized paramedic may consider administering a corticosteroid spray.

storage

Color Code—Green: General storage may be used.Prior to working with cupric oxalate you should be trainedon its proper handling and storage. Store in tightly closedcontainers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from acetylene gas, ammonia, caustic solutions, and nitromethane.

Shipping

UN2775, Copper based pesticides, solid, toxic, Hazard Class: 6.1; Labels: 6.1-Poisonous materials.

Incompatibilities

Explosive materials are formed on contact with acetylene gas, ammonia, caustic solutions; sodium hypobromite, nitromethane. Slight heating can cause a weak explosion. Cupric oxalate dissolves in aqueous ammonia and reacts as an acid to neutralize other bases as well. Can serve as a reducing agent in reactions that generate carbon dioxide. Incompatible with oxidizers (chlorates, nitrates, peroxides, permanganates, perchlorates, chlorine, bromine, fluorine, etc.); contact may cause fires or explosions. Keep away from alkaline materials, strong bases, strong acids, oxoacids, epoxides.