Copper Oxide (CuO) is black copper oxide powder widely used in catalysts, ceramics, feed additives, battery materials and copper salt production. Discover grades, specifications, storage guidelines and bulk supply information.
What is Copper Oxide (CuO)? Properties, Industrial Uses & Buying Tips
Introduction
Copper Oxide, chemical formula CuO, also known as copper(II) oxide, is a black inorganic powdery substance. It differs from copper(I) oxide (Cu₂O, red copper oxide). Thanks to its stable chemical property and outstanding catalytic performance, copper oxide is a widely used transition metal oxide raw material across multiple industrial sectors.
Manufacturers provide multiple grades including industrial grade, feed grade and electronic grade. Purity, particle fineness and impurity content are the key indicators global buyers evaluate before bulk procurement.
Basic Physical & Chemical Information
- Chemical Name: Copper(II) Oxide
- Formula: CuO
- CAS No.: 1317-38-0
- Appearance: Black fine powder
- Insoluble in water, soluble in dilute acid, ammonium chloride solution
- Typical purity: 98%, 99%, 99.5%
- Stable at room temperature, easy to react with acid to produce copper salts
Main Industrial Applications
1. Chemical Catalyst
Copper oxide acts as a common catalyst for oxidation reactions, waste gas treatment, hydrogen production and organic synthesis. It is extensively adopted in chemical engineering and environmental protection industries.
2. Raw Material for Copper Salt Production
CuO is the primary raw material to manufacture copper sulfate, copper chloride and other copper series chemicals.
3. Ceramic & Glass Colorant
It serves as coloring agent for ceramics, glazes and glass. It can generate green, blue and black color after high-temperature firing.
4. Feed & Fertilizer Additive
Feed-grade copper oxide supplies trace copper element for livestock and aquaculture to promote animal growth.
5. Electronic & Battery Materials
High-purity copper oxide is applied in electrode materials and lithium battery auxiliary materials.
Grade Selection Guide
- Catalyst / Copper salt production: 98% industrial grade is the mainstream choice
- Ceramic coloring: 98%-99% CuO with low iron impurity
- Feed industry: Feed grade with strict heavy metal control
- Electronic materials: ≥99.5% high-purity electronic grade
Storage & Operation Guidance
- Store in sealed packaging, dry and ventilated warehouse; prevent moisture and acid contact.
- Avoid long-term direct contact with skin. Wear dust mask and protective gloves during operation.
- Keep separately from strong acids, edible chemicals.
FAQ
Q1: What’s the difference between CuO and Cu₂O?
CuO is Copper(II) Oxide, black powder. Cu₂O is Copper(I) Oxide, red powder. They have different valence states and application fields. CuO is widely used for catalysts and copper salt production; Cu₂O is popular for antifouling paint and glass colorant.
Q2: Can copper oxide be shipped in bulk by sea?
Copper oxide is not dangerous goods in general. Complete SDS, COA documents are required for international logistics.
Q3: Is customized particle size available?
Reliable suppliers can provide coarse powder and ultrafine powder according to customer production demands.
Conclusion
Copper Oxide (CuO) is a cost-effective and versatile industrial raw material. When sourcing bulk copper oxide powder, confirm purity standards, impurity limits and consistent quality. Contact us for COA, free samples and competitive bulk price.