Primary Applications of Copper Sulphate

Primary Applications of Copper Sulphate

Copper sulphate is a versatile compound whose uses are largely based on the biocidal and chemical properties of the copper(II) ion (Cu²⁺).

1. Agriculture & Horticulture

Fungicide: The most famous use is as a key component of Bordeaux mixture (copper sulphate + lime), a broad-spectrum fungicide used to control diseases on fruits, vines, potatoes, and ornamentals.

Seed Treatment: Used to disinfect seeds before planting, preventing fungal spores carried on the seed coat.

Soil Amendment: Corrects copper-deficient soils, which is essential for healthy plant growth.

2. Animal Husbandry & Feed

Feed Additive: Serves as an essential micronutrient supplement in animal feed (e.g., for poultry, swine, cattle) to prevent copper deficiency and promote growth.

Foot Bath Solution: Used in diluted form in foot baths for livestock (e.g., sheep, cattle) to prevent and treat hoof infections like foot rot.

3. Water Treatment & Aquaculture

Algicide & Herbicide: Used to control algal blooms (e.g., in ponds, lakes, and water reservoirs) and invasive aquatic weeds.

Parasiticide: Used to treat parasitic infections (e.g., Ichthyophthirius or "Ich") in fish in aquaculture and ornamental ponds. Dosage is critical due to fish toxicity.

Molluscicide: Used to eliminate snails and slugs, which are intermediate hosts for parasites like schistosomes (bilharzia).

4. Industry & Manufacturing

Electroplating & Electrorefining: A primary source of copper ions in the electrolyte bath for copper electroplating and the electrorefining of blister copper to pure copper.

Mining (Hydrometallurgy): Used in the leaching process to extract copper from low-grade ores via solvent extraction-electrowinning (SX-EW).

Pigments & Dyes: A source of copper for manufacturing certain blue and green pigments used in ceramics, glass, and textiles.

Wood Preservation: Historically a key component of Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA) for pressure-treating timber against rot and insects (now restricted in many countries).

5. Chemical & Educational Use

Chemical Reagent: A common starting material or catalyst in organic synthesis and inorganic chemistry.

Laboratory Indicator: Anhydrous copper sulphate (white) is used as a test for water (turns blue upon hydration).

Educational Demonstrations: Used in classic chemistry experiments to demonstrate crystallization, redox reactions (e.g., with iron), and complex ion formation (e.g., with ammonia).

6. Public Health

Disinfectant: In very dilute solutions, it can be used for disinfecting surfaces or in swimming pools, though more common alternatives exist today.

Key Safety Note:

Copper sulphate is toxic to humans, mammals, and aquatic life. It is an irritant and can cause severe poisoning if ingested. Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and environmental precautions are mandatory during handling. Its use in many applications (e.g., agriculture, aquaculture) is strictly regulated.

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