Cupric Oxide丨CAS 1317-38-0

Cupric oxide丨1317-38-0 is a chemical compound composed of copper and oxygen, with the molecular formula CuO. It is a black, inorganic solid that occurs naturally as the mineral tenorite. Cupric oxide is a versatile material used in various industrial, chemical, and medical applications due to its unique properties, including its ability to conduct electricity and catalyze certain reactions.

As a copper(II) oxide, it has one copper ion in the +2 oxidation state and an oxygen ion. Cupric oxide is insoluble in water but can dissolve in acids to form copper salts, such as copper sulfate. Its uses span a range of industries, from agriculture to electronics, and it is also employed in certain medicinal treatments and biological applications.

1. Agriculture and Animal Feed
● Fungicide and Herbicide: Cupric oxide丨1317-38-0 is used as a fungicide and herbicide in agricultural settings. It helps to control fungal diseases in crops, such as blight, mildew, and rust. By inhibiting the growth of harmful fungi, it improves the yield and quality of crops like fruits, vegetables, and grains.
● Animal Feed Additive: In animal husbandry, cupric oxide is used as a trace mineral supplement in animal feed. Copper is an essential nutrient for many animals, contributing to enzymatic processes, immune function, and bone health. Cupric oxide is used to supplement copper in animal diets, particularly for ruminants, as it helps in growth promotion and disease resistance.
2. Electronics and Conductive Materials
● Conductive Materials: Cupric oxide is used in the production of various electronic devices, including semiconductors, solar cells, and circuit boards. Due to its electrical properties, cupric oxide is utilized in the manufacturing of conductive inks for printing electronic components. It can also be used in batteries, particularly in zinc-carbon batteries, to enhance performance and extend the battery life.
● Superconductivity and Sensors: In the realm of advanced electronics, cupric oxide has been studied for its potential to be used in superconductors and sensor applications. Its semi-conductive properties make it valuable in sensors that detect gases, heat, and light.
3. Chemical Industry
● Catalysis: Cupric oxide serves as a catalyst in several chemical reactions. It is commonly used in the oxidation of organic compounds and in the production of methanol from carbon monoxide and hydrogen. Cupric oxide is also a key catalyst in the production of acetic acid and other organic chemicals.
● Production of Copper Salts: Cupric oxide reacts with acids, such as sulfuric acid, to form various copper salts, including copper sulfate. Copper salts are essential for a range of industrial processes, including the manufacture of fungicides, dyes, and pigments.
● Water Treatment: Cupric oxide is used in water treatment processes as an antimicrobial agent. It can help to eliminate harmful bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms in water systems, making it useful for maintaining water quality in industrial processes and wastewater treatment plants.
4. Medical and Pharmaceutical Applications
● Antimicrobial Agent: Cupric oxide丨1317-38-0 has demonstrated antimicrobial properties and has been used in various medical and pharmaceutical applications. In particular, it has been utilized in the formulation of topical ointments and creams for wound healing and skin infections. The antimicrobial properties of cupric oxide help to reduce the risk of infection in wounds and burns.
● Copper Supplementation: Copper is an essential mineral required for various bodily functions, including the formation of red blood cells, collagen synthesis, and the maintenance of healthy bones and nerves. Cupric oxide can be used as a copper supplement for people with copper deficiency, although other forms of copper, such as copper gluconate or copper sulfate, are more commonly used for supplementation.
● Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects: Some research suggests that cupric oxide may have potential as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. This property could be useful in the treatment of diseases such as arthritis and cardiovascular disorders.
5. Pigments and Coloring Agents
● Pigments in Ceramics and Glass: Cupric oxide is used as a pigment in ceramics, glass, and paint. It imparts a greenish-black or blue color, depending on the medium. When mixed with other chemicals, cupric oxide can be used to produce colored glassware, ceramics, and enamel coatings. Its use in ceramics, specifically, allows for the creation of colorful glazes and decorative elements.
● Cosmetics: Cupric oxide is sometimes used as a colorant in cosmetic products, particularly in the creation of eye makeup and nail polish. Its ability to provide color without causing irritation makes it a desirable ingredient in certain cosmetic formulations.
6. Energy Storage and Green Technologies
● Battery Manufacturing: Cupric oxide丨1317-38-0 is utilized in the production of batteries, particularly in certain types of rechargeable batteries like nickel-cadmium (NiCd) and zinc-carbon batteries. Cupric oxide plays a crucial role in improving the overall energy efficiency and performance of batteries, contributing to better power storage and delivery.
● Solar Energy: Cupric oxide has potential applications in solar energy systems. It has been studied for its use in thin-film solar cells, where it can be used to absorb light and convert it into electricity. This research is part of the broader effort to develop cost-effective, sustainable energy solutions.

1. Antimicrobial Properties

Cupric oxide has inherent antibacterial and antifungal properties, which make it useful in treating wounds, skin infections, and maintaining sanitation in industrial processes. Its ability to inhibit the growth of harmful microbes has been well-documented, contributing to its use in medical treatments and in maintaining water quality.

2. Supports Agricultural Growth and Pest Control

As a fungicide and herbicide, cupric oxide is beneficial in crop management by preventing the spread of fungal diseases, such as mildew and rust, which can significantly damage agricultural yields. Its inclusion in animal feed enhances growth and immune function, promoting better productivity and health in livestock.

3. Catalytic Role in Chemical Reactions

Cupric oxide's role as a catalyst in chemical processes is essential in industrial applications. It plays a key part in methanol production, organic compound oxidation, and the creation of copper salts used in various products, from agricultural chemicals to dyes and pigments.

4. Electronics and Energy Storage

In electronics, Cupric oxide丨1317-38-0 contributes to the development of semiconductors and energy-efficient devices. Its role in solar energy research and as a material for batteries is helping to advance renewable energy technologies and energy storage solutions, which are crucial for transitioning to green technologies.

5. Nutritional Benefits

Copper is an essential nutrient that supports various bodily functions, including enzyme activity, red blood cell formation, and nervous system health. Cupric oxide provides an easily accessible source of copper for those with dietary deficiencies, helping to maintain copper balance in the body.

Cupric oxide丨1317-38-0 is a valuable compound with diverse applications across agriculture, electronics, medicine, and chemical industries. Its antimicrobial properties, catalytic abilities, and contribution to the production of copper salts make it a critical component in numerous industrial processes. Additionally, its use in agriculture, particularly as a fungicide and feed additive, has been instrumental in improving crop yields and livestock health.