Copper sulphate pentahydrate is used in chemical processing agriculture and industrial applications.
Key Characteristics
Physical State: It typically appears as bright blue triclinic crystals, granules, or powder.
Chemical Nature: It is an inorganic salt that is highly soluble in water and methanol.
Dehydration: When heated above 110 °C, it loses its water of crystallisation to become white anhydrous copper sulphate.
Toxicity: It is classified as harmful if swallowed and is highly toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects.
Common Applications
Agriculture & Horticulture: Used as a fungicide and herbicide. It is a key ingredient in Bordeaux mixture (mixed with lime) to control fungal diseases on crops like grapes and tomatoes.
Water Treatment: Effective as an algaecide to control algae growth in ponds, lakes, and swimming pools.
Industry: Employed in electroplating, as a dye fixative in textiles, and as a raw material for producing other copper chemicals.
Laboratory & Education: Frequently used in chemistry sets for growing crystals and as a reagent in tests like Fehling’s or Benedict’s for reducing sugars.
Sewer Maintenance: Added to sewer lines and septic systems to kill tree roots that cause blockages.
