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Copper naphthenate is widely used as a wood preservative due to its effectiveness against decay fungi and insects.
Copper naphthenate is primarily used as a wood preservative.
Copper naphthenate protects wood from fungal decay and insect damage.
CAS Number: 1338-02-9
EC Number: 29-003-00-5
Molecular Formula: C21H36CuO4
Molecular Weight: 416.1 g/mol
SYNONYMS:
Copper salt, Naphthenic acid, QNAP, Cunapsol, CuNap, Cuprinol, Cunapsol, Cuprinol, Troysan, Copper uversol, Caswell No. 245, Chapco Cu-nap, Wittox C, Troysan copper 8%, Naphtenate de cuivre, Wiltz-65, Naphthenic acid, copper salt, REDYCOAT, 9J2IBN2H70, CUNAPSOL 5, Copper (II) naphthenate, UNII-9J2IBN2H70, CCRIS 1401, HSDB 245, EINECS 215-657-0, EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 023102, Naphtenate de cuivre (ISO-French), Naphtenate de cuivre [ISO-French], Kopertox, Pritox, Copper naphthenates, CELLAVIT, CUNAP, SHAKELAST, THRUSHTOX, CUPRINOL GREEN, SANPRESER WOG, THRUSH RELIEF, NAPHTHEX CU, PAINT DRIER, D-THRUSH, naphthenic acid copper salt, GORI 22, K 204 (ACCELERATOR), USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 023102, K 204, Horseshoers Secret Thrush Treatment Aid, Thrush-XX, 215-657-0, copper naphthenate, Copper naphthenate [BSI:ISO], COPPER NAPHTHENATE [ISO], COPPER NAPHTHENATE [HSDB], COPPER NAPHTHENATE [GREEN BOOK], Q27272605, CNC, Chapco Cu-nap, Copper uversol, Cunapsol, Cuprinol, Naphtenate de cuivre [ISO-French], Naphthenic acids, copper salts, Troysan, Troysan copper 8%, Wiltz-65, Wittox C
Copper naphthenate is a copper salt of naphthenic acid.
Copper naphthenate is a copper derivative of naphthenic acid.
Although commonly called salts of naphthenic acid, copper naphthenate is not ionic, but is a covalent coordination complex.
This explains its lipophilic character.
Copper naphthenate appears as a green colored liquid with a petroleum-like odor.
Flash point of Copper naphthenate is between 100 - 141 °F.
Copper naphthenate is less dense than water and insoluble in water.
Copper naphthenate's vapors heavier than air.
Copper naphthenate is a chemical compound of copper.
Copper is a chemical element with the symbol Cu and atomic number 29.
Copper is an essential element in plants and animals as it is required for the normal functioning of more than 30 enzymes.
Copper naphthenate occurs naturally throughout the environment in rocks, soil, water, and air.
Copper naphthenate is a copper-based, oil-borne wood preservative that outperforms other preservatives and has a superior environmental profile.
Copper naphthenate is an obsolete general purpose wood preservative.
Copper Naphthenate, CAS 1338-02-9, is a chemical compound belonging to the group of metal soaps.
Copper naphthenate is formed from the reaction of naphthenic acids (which are a complex mixture of cycloaliphatic carboxylic acids derived from petroleum) with copper salts.
Copper naphthenate is a green-blue solid.
Copper naphthenate is a dark green viscous liquid; Insoluble in water.
Copper naphthenate is a green liquid with petroleum odor.
Copper naphthenate is a waxy green-blue solid or very viscous liquid.
Copper naphthenate is insoluble in water; mp varies with composition.
USES and APPLICATIONS of COPPER NAPHTHENATE:
Copper naphthenate is most widely used in wood preservation.
Copper naphthenate also protects other cellulosic materials such as textiles and cordage from damage by decay, fungi, and insects.
Other metal naphthenates are used as paint driers, rubber adhesion promoters, lubricant additives, and catalysts where oil solubility is required.
Copper naphthenate sold for pressure treatment of wood is typically supplied as an 8% copper (as metal) concentrate.
This is diluted to 0.5–1.5% copper (as metal) treating solutions.
Copper naphthenate sold at retail for consumer use is typically a 1% or 2% copper ready-to-use solution in mineral spirits or other similar solvents.
Waterborne copper naphthenate formulations are also available as a 5% copper (as metal) concentrate.
These are used after further dilution with water.
Copper naphthenate is widely used as a wood preservative due to its effectiveness against decay fungi and insects.
Copper naphthenate is primarily used as a wood preservative.
Wood Preservation: Copper naphthenate protects wood from fungal decay and insect damage.
Utility Poles and Railroad Ties: Copper naphthenate extends the service life of wooden structures.
Fencing and Decking: Copper naphthenate is used in residential and commercial settings.
Textiles and Cordage: Copper naphthenate preserves materials from microbial degradation.
Antifouling Paints: Copper naphthenate prevents biofouling on marine vessels.
Copper naphthenate has been commercially produced and industry utilized as wood preservative since its first use in Europe in 1889.
Copper naphthenate is typically formulated in hydrocarbon solvents such as diesel, heavier fuel oils, or mineral spirits, although waterborne formulations are also used to preserve dimensional lumber and in non-pressure applications such as wooden roof shakes and shingles.
Copper naphthenate in oil is a heavy duty wood preservative used for utility poles, railroad crossties and bridge timbers, highway construction such as posts and guardrails, fence posts, and piles.
In addition to broad efficacy against decay fungi and wood-destroying insects, its low mammalian toxicity is a key reason why copper naphthenate has gained market acceptance as a proven effective wood preservative that is specified and used extensively for environmental reasons by utilities and railroads as a less toxic alternative to creosote, pentachlorophenol and arsenicals in poles, crossties and bridge timbers.
Unlike creosote, pentachlorophenol, and arsenic-containing preservatives, copper naphthenate has been classified by the US EPA as a "General Use" (not "Restricted Use") pesticide due to its relatively benign toxicity profile, i.e., its use and application is not restricted to only by or under the direct supervision of trained and certified applicators.
As such, copper naphthenate is available over the counter in ready-to-use formulations for consumer/residential use.
Copper naphthenate is also used in non-pressure applications for preserving textiles and cordage, and is widely used for remedial treatment of utility poles in service and for treating end cuts, holes, and other damage to the surface of treated wood.
Copper naphthenate in both oil-borne and waterborne formulations has been adopted by the American Wood Protection Association as an AWPA-standardized wood preservative.
Commercial application of Copper naphthenate for heavy duty commodities such as poles, ties and timbers is predominantly by pressure treatment.
Non-pressure methods such as thermal (non-pressure) dipping of utility poles from the butt to above the ground line has also been used, particularly for naturally durable species such as western red cedar.
Consumer methods of application include dip, brush or spray; specific directions for use are found on the pesticide label on the container.
The color of CuN-treated wood may vary from light brown-green to dark brown depending on the type of oil and the treating process.
Exposure to sunlight gives the wood a medium brown color over time.
Copper naphthenate is also used as the antimicrobial active ingredient and drying agent in FDA-approved hoof thrush treatments for horses.
As an inert ingredient, copper naphthenate is used mainly in insecticide and nematicide formulations when applied to soil and/or growing crops (prior to formation of edible parts).
Metal naphthenates have been used as additive driers in alkyd paints.
They increase the rate of drying of the applied paint on the surface.
Antifouling Applications: Copper naphthenate has some use in preventing the growth of organisms on submerged surfaces, though less common than other dedicated antifouling agents.
Catalyst: In some specific chemical reactions, copper naphthenate can act as a catalyst.
Copper Naphthenate is primarily used as a heavy-duty preservative and biocide, particularly for wood and other cellulosic materials.
Copper naphthenate is used as a replacement for creosote in railroad ties and as a replacement for pentachlorophenol in utility poles.
Copper Naphthenate is widely recognized and utilized for its potent fungicidal and insecticidal properties, making it a highly effective wood preservative.
Copper naphthenate provides long-lasting protection against rot, decay, fungi (like brown rot and white rot), and wood-boring insects such as termites and powderpost beetles.
Due to its efficacy and ability to penetrate wood, Copper naphthenate is commonly used for treating timber in various outdoor and ground-contact applications.
Copper naphthenate typically imparts a greenish to bluish-green color to treated wood.
Copper naphthenate is used as a fungicide (paint, cellulosic textiles, wood, PVC, canvas, and rope).
Copper naphthenate is used as an insecticide.
Copper naphthenate is used as a drier (varnishes, printing, and paints).
Copper naphthenate is used as ship bottom coating to prevent barnacle growth.
Copper naphthenate is used as veterinary medication.Copper naphthenate is uUsed for industrial, commercial, and residential preservation of wood and cellulose based textiles and cordage (textile use limited to industrial non-apparel materials except for government issued military materials).
Copper naphthenate is also used to treat poles already in service.
-Wood Preservation uses of Copper naphthenate:
Its most significant use is for pressure treatment or surface application to wood to protect Copper naphthenate from decay, fungi, and insect attack.
Copper naphthenate is favored for its deep penetration and long-term effectiveness in harsh environments.
Example: Treatment of utility poles, railway ties, fence posts, bridge timbers, decks, wooden shingles, and agricultural stakes.
-Textile and Rope Preservation uses of Copper naphthenate:
Copper naphthenate is used to protect canvases, ropes, nets, and other textiles from mildew and rot, especially those exposed to moisture or outdoor conditions.
Example: Treatment of awnings, tarpaulins, and fishing nets.
-Fungicide/Biocide in Other Materials uses of Copper naphthenate:
Can be incorporated into various materials to impart fungal resistance.
Example: Additive in some paints, coatings, and adhesives for enhanced mildew protection.
-Wood preservative and other uses of Copper naphthenate:
Copper naphthenate is an active ingredient used predominantly in industrial and commercial wood preservation for non-pressure (dip/brush/spray) and pressure treatments (vacuum/full cell) to protect against fungal rot, decay, termites and wood-boring insects in unfinished wood and various fabricated wood products.
Copper naphthenate is also used for remedial treatments to in-service poles including internal/external surfaces at ground or below ground level via brush/trowel, mechanical injection, or bandage wrap.
Wood treated with copper naphthenate is specified for exterior above ground, ground contact, below ground and fresh water contact use applications.
Copper naphthenate is also used as protective wood preservative surface treatments when applied to bare seasoned wood.
For this use, Copper naphthenate is readily available to the general public and sold over-the-counter to consumers as wood protection coatings and water repellants.
✅ BENEFITS AND CHARACTERISTICS OF COPPER NAPHTHENATE:
*Effective Preservative:
Copper naphthenate provides long-term protection against decay organisms.
*Low Mammalian Toxicity:
Considered safer than other copper-based preservatives.
*Environmental Stability:
Low leachability and volatility reduce environmental impact.
*Versatility:
Applicable through various methods, including brushing, spraying, and pressure treatment.
PROPERTIES OF COPPER NAPHTHENATE:
*Chemical Nature:
Copper salt of naphthenic acids (a metal soap)
*Molecular Formula:
Variable, as naphthenic acid is a mixture (e.g., (C₁₁H₇O₂)₂Cu is a general representation)
*Appearance:
Greenish-blue to dark green or blue-green viscous liquid, waxy solid, or paste.
*Copper Content:
Typically specified as a percentage (e.g., 2% to 8% or higher as copper metal in solutions)
*Solubility:
Copper naphthenate is soluble in many organic solvents (e.g., mineral spirits, diesel, oils); insoluble in water.
*Odor:
Characteristic petroleum-like or solvent odor.
*Density:
Approximately 0.95 – 1.1 g/mL (varies with solvent and concentration)
*Flash Point:
Copper naphthenate varies depending on the solvent used in the formulation (e.g., >60°C or higher)
*Stability:
Stable under normal storage conditions.
*Formulations:
Commonly supplied as solutions in hydrocarbon solvents or as concentrates.
COMPOSITION OF COPPER NAPHTHENATE:
Copper naphthenate has the general formula Cu(RCOO)₂.
Copper naphthenate's structure is assumed to resemble that of copper(II) acetate.
Copper naphthenate is commonly prepared by treatment of naphthenic acid with copper(II) compounds such as basic copper carbonate or copper hydroxide.
Even copper(II) sulfate can be treated with sodium or potassium naphthenate in aqueous solutions.
The reaction of copper metal with naphthenic acid, which has been used commercially, requires more forcing reaction conditions and generates excessive impurities.
Less commonly practiced methods of synthesis include reaction of copper acetate with naphthenic acid, which generates acetic acid as a byproduct.
Copper naphthenate can also be synthesized electrochemically using copper electrodes.
Copper naphthenate is a dark-green, amorphous glassy solid, paste, or viscous liquid.
Copper naphthenate is freely soluble in various organic solvents including mineral spirits, diesel fuel, and other fuel oils, and creosote-petroleum mixtures.
Copper naphthenate free of any solvent has a copper content ranging from 10–13% by weight, depending on the acid number/molecular weight of the naphthenic acid used.
The properties of copper naphthenate treating solutions are dependent on the type of oil used as the carrier.
PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of COPPER NAPHTHENATE:
Chemical Name: Copper naphthenate
CAS Number: 1338-02-9
EC Number: 29-003-00-5
Molecular Formula: Varies; general formula is Cu(RCOO)₂, where RCOO represents naphthenate groups
Molar Mass: Approximately 346–782 g/mol, depending on the specific composition
Structure: Coordination complex of copper(II) with naphthenic acid ligands
Appearance: Blue-green amorphous solid or viscous liquid
Odor: Petroleum-like or musty
Density: Approximately 1.055 g/cm³ (1.02 g/cm³ as 8% Cu solution in #2 diesel)
Boiling Point: Non-volatile; decomposition occurs above 100°C
Flash Point: 37.8°C (>100°F) when in mineral spirits
Solubility: Essentially insoluble in water;
soluble in organic solvents like mineral spirits and diesel
Autoignition Temperature: Approximately 282°C (540°F)
Explosive Limits: LEL: 0.8%;
UEL: 5% (in mineral spirits)
Physical State: Viscous liquid
Color: No data available
Odor: No data available
Melting Point/Freezing Point: No data available
Initial Boiling Point:
Boiling Range: 106.4 - 333.6 °C at 1.013 hPa
Flammability (solid, gas): No data available
Upper/Lower Flammability:
Explosive Limits: No data available
Flash Point: 101 °C - closed cup
Autoignition Temperature: No data available
Decomposition Temperature: No data available
pH: No data available
Viscosity:
Viscosity, kinematic: 22 mm²/s at 20 °C
Viscosity, dynamic: No data available
Water Solubility: 0.05 g/L at 20 °C - slightly soluble
Partition Coefficient: n-octanol/water: No data available
Vapor Pressure: No data available
Density: 0.92 g/cm³ at 20 °C - lit.
Relative Density: No data available
Relative Vapor Density: No data available
Particle Characteristics: No data available
Explosive Properties: No data available
Oxidizing Properties: No data available
Other Safety Information: No data available
Chemical Formula: CuCnH2n-zO4
n: 10-24; z: 0, 1, 2
Molar Mass: ~346-782
Appearance: Blue-green amorphous solid or viscous liquid.
Always formulated as a liquid solution or emulsion.
Density: 1.055 g/cm³ (1.02 g/cm³ as 8% Cu solution in #2 diesel)
Boiling Point: Non-volatile: > 100 °C (212 °F; 373 K)
Solubility in Water: Essentially insoluble; 46 mg/L
Molecular Weight: 416.1 g/mol
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count: 0
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count: 4
Rotatable Bond Count: 6
Exact Mass: 415.190957 Da
Monoisotopic Mass: 415.190957 Da
Topological Polar Surface Area: 80.3 Ų
Heavy Atom Count: 26
Formal Charge: 0
Complexity: 300
Isotope Atom Count: 0
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count: 2
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count: 3
Compound Is Canonicalized: Yes
FIRST AID MEASURES of COPPER NAPHTHENATE:
-Description of first-aid measures
*General advice:
Show this material safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
*If inhaled:
After inhalation:
Fresh air.
*In case of skin contact:
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
Rinse skin with
water/ shower.
*In case of eye contact:
After eye contact:
Rinse out with plenty of water.
Call in ophthalmologist.
Remove contact lenses.
*If swallowed:
After swallowing:
Immediately make victim drink water (two glasses at most).
Consult a physician.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.
No data available
ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of COPPER NAPHTHENATE:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains.
Collect, bind, and pump off spills.
Observe possible material restrictions.
Take up dry.
Dispose of properly.
Clean up affected area.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of COPPER NAPHTHENATE:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Foam
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.
EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of COPPER NAPHTHENATE:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection.
Safety glasses
*Body Protection:
protective clothing
*Respiratory protection:
Recommended Filter type: Filter A
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.
HANDLING and STORAGE of COPPER NAPHTHENATE:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed.
Dry.
STABILITY and REACTIVITY of COPPER NAPHTHENATE:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature).
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available
