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Send EmailCopper Arsenic, Copper-Arsenic Alloy, Arsenical Copper, 7440-50-8, 7440-38-2
COPPER ARSENIC (COPPER-ARSENIC ALLOY / Cu-As)
PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Copper Arsenic |
| Other Names | Copper-Arsenic Alloy, Cu-As Alloy, Arsenical Copper |
| English Name | Copper Arsenic, Copper-Arsenic Alloy, Arsenical Copper |
| Composition | Copper (Cu) + Arsenic (As) |
| CAS Numbers | 7440-50-8 (Copper); 7440-38-2 (Arsenic) |
| Appearance | Reddish-brown metallic |
| Alloy Type | Copper-based alloy |
CHEMICAL STRUCTURE
Copper Arsenic Alloy (Cu-As)
α-Copper Matrix (FCC Crystal Structure)
with Arsenic Atoms
Cu Cu Cu Cu
\ | / |
Cu Cu Cu Cu
/ | \ |
Cu Cu Cu Cu
Arsenic (As) Atoms Dissolved in Copper Matrix
Improves Mechanical Properties
Increases Corrosion Resistance
Matrix: α-Copper solid solution (FCC crystal structure)
Arsenic Distribution: Dissolved in copper matrix
Alloy Type: Copper-based, arsenic-added
SECTION 1: CHEMICAL IDENTITY AND DEFINITION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Copper Arsenic |
| Other Names (English) | Copper Arsenic, Copper-Arsenic Alloy, Arsenical Copper |
| Other Names (Turkish) | Bakır-Arsenik Alaşımı, Cu-As Alaşımı, Arsenikli Bakır |
| Composition | Copper (Cu) + Arsenic (As) |
| CAS Numbers | 7440-50-8 (Copper); 7440-38-2 (Arsenic) |
| Arsenic Content | Typically 0.2% - 0.5% |
| Copper Content | ≥ 99.5% |
| Alloy Type | Copper-based alloy; low-alloy copper |
| Appearance | Reddish-brown metallic |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Color | Reddish-brown (characteristic of copper) |
| Luster | Metallic luster |
SECTION 2: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Value | Test Method / Note |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Reddish-brown metallic | Visual |
| Density (20°C) | 8.96 g/cm³ | ASTM D792 |
| Melting Point | ~1,083°C (copper melting point) | DSC |
| Boiling Point | ~2,562°C | - |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 60-100 HB (depending on As content) | ASTM E10 |
| Tensile Strength | ~250-350 MPa | ASTM E8 |
| Elongation | ~10-30% | ASTM E8 |
| Electrical Conductivity (IACS) | 85-95% (slightly lower than pure Cu) | ASTM E1004 |
| Thermal Conductivity (20°C) | 350-385 W/(m·K) | - |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion | 16.5 × 10⁻⁶ /°C | - |
| Specific Heat (25°C) | 0.385 J/g·K | - |
| Magnetic Properties | Diamagnetic | - |
| Corrosion Resistance | High (better than pure copper) | - |
| Machinability | Good | - |
SECTION 3: CHEMICAL COMPOSITION (TYPICAL)
| Element | Content (%) | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Copper (Cu) | ≥ 99.5% | Base metal |
| Arsenic (As) | 0.2% - 0.5% | Alloying element; hardness enhancer; corrosion resistance |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.01% | Impurity (controlled) |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.01% | Impurity |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤ 0.005% | Impurity |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.005% | Impurity |
| Other Impurities | ≤ 0.03% | Total impurities |
SECTION 4: CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIVITY
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Chemical Character | Copper-based alloy; arsenic-added; high conductivity; good corrosion resistance; improved mechanical properties |
| Stability | Stable under normal conditions; May form oxide layer on surface; Corrosion resistant |
| Reactivity | Dissolves in dilute acids; Rapidly dissolves in nitric acid; Arsenic content may produce arsenic oxide fumes when heated |
| Incompatible Materials | Strong oxidizing agents, nitric acid, halogens |
| Corrosion Resistance | High; Better than pure copper; Resistant to seawater |
| Acid Reaction | Cu + 2HNO₃ → Cu(NO₃)₂ + H₂ (in nitric acid) |
| Oxidation | Forms copper oxide (Cu₂O, CuO) on surface; Arsenic content may form As₂O₃ at high temperatures |
| Arsenic Effect | Improves mechanical properties; Increases corrosion resistance; Increases hardness |
SECTION 5: EFFECT OF ARSENIC ON COPPER
| Property | Arsenic Effect | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | Increases | Arsenic dissolves in copper matrix, increasing hardness |
| Tensile Strength | Increases | Arsenic improves mechanical strength |
| Electrical Conductivity | Slightly decreases | 5-15% reduction compared to pure copper |
| Thermal Conductivity | Slightly decreases | Small reduction compared to pure copper |
| Corrosion Resistance | Increases | Arsenic significantly improves corrosion resistance |
| Machinability | Good | Still good machinability |
| Ductility | Slightly decreases | Elongation values slightly decrease |
SECTION 6: PRODUCTION METHODS
Method 1: Melt Alloying (Most Common)
-
Process: Pure copper + Arsenic → Melting → Alloying → Casting → Forming
-
Description: Pure copper is melted; Arsenic (Cu-As master alloy or elemental arsenic) is added; Homogeneous mixing is achieved; Casting yields ingots or shaped products
Method 2: Powder Metallurgy
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Process: Copper powder + Arsenic powder → Mixing → Pressing → Sintering → Alloy
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Description: Copper and arsenic powders are mixed, pressed, and sintered; Used for specialized applications
Method 3: Recycling
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Process: Copper arsenic scrap → Sorting → Melting → Refining → Alloy → Casting
-
Description: Copper arsenic alloy scrap is collected, sorted, and melted; Purified by refining; Composition adjusted
SECTION 7: FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES AND MECHANISM OF ACTION
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| High Conductivity | High electrical and thermal conductivity; Provides efficiency in electrical conductors; Effective heat transfer in heat exchangers |
| Corrosion Resistance | High corrosion resistance; Resistant to seawater; Long-lasting in chemical environments; Better than pure copper |
| Mechanical Properties | Arsenic addition increases hardness and durability; Better mechanical properties than pure copper; High-temperature resistance |
| High-Temperature Resistance | Resistant to high temperatures; Suitable for heat exchangers and high-temperature applications |
| Machinability | Easily shaped and machined; Can be processed by casting, rolling, extrusion |
| Toxicity | Requires careful handling due to arsenic content; Appropriate safety measures must be taken |
SECTION 8: MAIN APPLICATION AREAS
| Industry / Application | Function | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical & Electronics | Conductor / connector | Electrical conductors; Connectors; Terminal blocks; Relay contacts |
| Chemical Industry | Corrosion-resistant equipment | Chemical vessels; Reactors; Piping; Valves; Heat exchangers |
| Marine & Shipbuilding | Corrosion-resistant parts | Ship propellers; Seawater piping; Ship hulls; Submarine equipment |
| Heat Exchangers | Heat transfer | Industrial heat exchangers; Condensers; Cooling systems |
| Metallurgy | Alloy component | Hardening of copper alloys; Mechanical property improvement |
| Automotive | Electrical components | Electric motors; Generators; Cable connections |
| Petrochemical | Corrosion-resistant equipment | Piping; Valves; Process equipment |
SECTION 9: QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Reddish-brown metallic | Visual |
| Copper Content | ≥ 99.5% | AAS / ICP |
| Arsenic Content | 0.2% - 0.5% | AAS / ICP |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.01% | AAS / ICP |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤ 0.005% | AAS / ICP |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.01% | AAS / ICP |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.005% | Combustion / ICP |
| Total Impurities | ≤ 0.03% | AAS / ICP |
| Density | 8.96 g/cm³ | ASTM D792 |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 60-100 HB | ASTM E10 |
| Electrical Conductivity | ≥ 85% IACS | ASTM E1004 |
SECTION 10: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Acute Oral Toxicity | Low toxicity (metallic alloy) |
| Acute Inhalation Toxicity | Toxic due to arsenic content; Dust/fume inhalation is hazardous |
| Skin Irritation | Metallic form is non-irritant |
| Eye Irritation | Metallic form is non-irritant |
| Chronic Toxicity | Arsenic compounds are carcinogenic; Arsenic exposure causes skin lesions, nervous system damage |
| Carcinogenicity | IARC Group 1 (Arsenic and arsenic compounds) |
| Mutagenicity | Arsenic compounds may be mutagenic |
| Target Organs | Respiratory system, skin, liver, kidneys |
| Occupational Exposure Limit (8h TWA) | 0.01 mg/m³ (as As) |
| Special Toxicity Note | Alloy in metallic form is relatively safe; Arsenic dust/fume inhalation is toxic; Appropriate respiratory protection must be used during processing (cutting, grinding, welding); Prolonged exposure may cause arsenicism |
SECTION 11: GHS CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING
GHS Classification (Compliant with CLP and UN GHS):
| Hazard Class | Category | H-Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Carcinogenicity (Arsenic) | Category 1A | H350 |
| Acute Toxicity (Inhalation) | Category 4 | H332 |
| STOT - RE (Repeated Exposure) | Category 1 | H372 |
| Chronic Aquatic Toxicity | Category 2 | H411 |
Signal Word: DANGER
Hazard Pictograms: GHS08 (Health Hazard), GHS07 (Exclamation Mark), GHS09 (Environment)
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| H332 | Harmful if inhaled |
| H350 | Causes cancer |
| H372 | Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure |
| H411 | Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects |
NFPA 704 Hazard Classification:
| Health | Flammability | Reactivity | Special |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 0 | 0 | - |
| (Moderate health hazard) | (Will not burn) | (Stable) | (None) |
SECTION 12: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| P201 | Obtain special instructions before use |
| P202 | Do not handle until all safety precautions have been read and understood |
| P260 | Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray |
| P261 | Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray |
| P264 | Wash hands thoroughly after handling |
| P270 | Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product |
| P271 | Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area |
| P273 | Avoid release to the environment |
| P280 | Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection/respiratory protection |
| P304+P340 | IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing |
| P308+P313 | IF exposed or concerned: Get medical advice/attention |
| P362+P364 | Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse |
| P403+P233 | Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed |
| P405 | Store locked up |
| P501 | Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations |
SECTION 13: FIRST AID MEASURES
| Exposure Route | Action to Take |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Move to fresh air immediately. Rest in a position comfortable for breathing. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. If symptoms occur, get medical attention. |
| Skin Contact | Remove contaminated clothing immediately. Rinse skin with plenty of water for at least 15-20 minutes. Wash with soap and water. If skin irritation occurs, get medical advice/attention. |
| Eye Contact | Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Keep eyelids open. Remove contact lenses if present. Continue rinsing. If eye irritation persists, get medical advice/attention. |
| Ingestion | Rinse mouth with water. Do NOT induce vomiting. Drink plenty of water. Get medical attention if symptoms occur. |
SECTION 14: FIREFIGHTING MEASURES
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Fire Hazard | Non-combustible. Powder form may be combustible. High temperatures may release toxic arsenic oxide fumes. |
| Hazards During Fire | Thermal decomposition produces toxic arsenic oxide (As₂O₃) fumes |
| Suitable Extinguishers | Dry chemical powder, CO₂, sand |
| Unsuitable Extinguishers | Water (with powder form) |
| Special Protective Equipment | Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing |
| Special Precautions | Prevent dust from entering sewers and waterways; Do not inhale fumes |
SECTION 15: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; Keep away from moisture and incompatible substances; Store separately from acids |
| Container Requirements | Original packaging, dry containers; Protect from corrosion |
| Materials to Protect From | Strong acids, oxidizing agents, halogens, moisture |
| Shelf Life | Unlimited (under proper storage conditions) |
| Stability Note | Stable under normal conditions; May form oxide layer on surface; Protect from moisture |
SECTION 16: PACKAGING OPTIONS
| Packaging Type | Quantity | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Wooden Crate | 50-200 kg | Wooden crate (lined) |
| Steel Crate | 50-200 kg | Steel crate |
| Steel Drum | 100-500 kg | Corrosion-resistant lined steel |
| Bulk | Custom quantities | Container |
SECTION 17: TRANSPORT INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | UN 3077 (Environmentally hazardous substance, solid, n.o.s.) |
| Hazard Class | 9 (Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods) |
| Packing Group | III |
| ADR/RID | UN 3077, Environmentally hazardous substance, solid, n.o.s., 9, PG III |
| IMDG Code | UN 3077, Environmentally hazardous substance, solid, n.o.s., 9, PG III, Marine Pollutant: Yes |
| IATA (Air) | UN 3077, Environmentally hazardous substance, solid, n.o.s., 9, PG III |
| Marine Pollutant | Yes |
| Transport Temperature | Ambient temperature; Protect from moisture |
SECTION 18: REGULATORY STATUS
| Region / Authority | Status |
|---|---|
| European Union | REACH registered; Classified due to arsenic content |
| USA (TSCA) | Listed |
| USA (EPA) | Regulated as hazardous substance |
| Turkey | Industrial raw material; Subject to KKDIK regulation |
| IARC | Group 1 (Arsenic and arsenic compounds) |
| NTP | Known human carcinogen (Arsenic) |
| OSHA | Regulated |
| California (Prop 65) | Arsenic listed |
| EU Restrictions | Regulated under REACH Annex XVII |
| RoHS | May be restricted due to arsenic content |
SECTION 19: SUMMARY TABLE
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product | Copper Arsenic (Cu-As Alloy) |
| CAS Numbers | 7440-50-8 (Cu); 7440-38-2 (As) |
| Arsenic Content | 0.2% - 0.5% |
| Copper Content | ≥ 99.5% |
| Density | 8.96 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | ~1,083°C |
| Hardness (Brinell) | 60-100 HB |
| Electrical Conductivity | ≥ 85% IACS |
| Primary Function | Conductor, corrosion resistance, mechanical properties |
| Main Applications | Electrical, chemical, marine, heat exchangers, metallurgy |
| Shelf Life | Unlimited |
| GHS Signal Word | DANGER |
| UN Number | UN 3077 |
| Toxicity | Toxic due to arsenic content |
| Special Feature | High conductivity; Good corrosion resistance; Improved mechanical properties; Requires careful handling due to arsenic toxicity |
SECTION 20: CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES
CRITICAL WARNINGS:
-
Causes cancer (H350). Due to arsenic content: IARC Group 1; NTP Known human carcinogen. Minimize exposure.
-
Harmful if inhaled (H332). Avoid inhalation of dust/fumes.
-
Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure (H372). Arsenic exposure may cause skin lesions, nervous system damage.
-
Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects (H411). Prevent environmental release.
-
Non-combustible but may release toxic arsenic oxide fumes at high temperatures.
-
Arsenic toxicity: Arsenic dust/fume may be generated during processing (cutting, grinding, welding).
-
Incompatibilities: Keep away from strong acids, oxidizing agents, and halogens.
-
Hygiene Requirement: Contaminated clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace.
-
Children and pregnant women are particularly sensitive to arsenic exposure.
BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:
-
Electrical & Electronics Applications: Use in electrical conductors requiring high conductivity and corrosion resistance; Connectors, terminal blocks; Provides efficiency and long service life.
-
Chemical Industry: Use in corrosion-resistant equipment and vessels; Chemical reactors; Piping; Valves; Heat exchangers.
-
Marine & Shipbuilding: High resistance to seawater; Ship propellers; Seawater piping; Submarine equipment.
-
Heat Exchangers: Use in heat exchangers due to high-temperature and corrosion resistance; Condensers; Cooling systems.
-
Handling: Use in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods; Avoid dust generation; Wear chemical-resistant gloves, protective goggles, face shield, and appropriate respiratory protection.
-
Personal Protective Equipment: Wear impermeable gloves (nitrile, neoprene), chemical safety goggles, full-face shield, protective clothing, and NIOSH-approved HEPA-filtered respiratory protection.
-
Hygiene: Do not eat, drink, or smoke when using; Wash hands thoroughly after handling; Do not take contaminated working clothes home; Shower at the end of the work shift.
-
Storage: Store in tightly closed, properly labeled containers in dry conditions; Keep away from acids and oxidizing agents; Store locked up.
-
Spill Response: Avoid raising dust; Wear full PPE; Sweep spilled substance into covered containers; Do not allow to enter drains or waterways; Place in properly labeled closed containers.
-
Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations; Do not discharge into sewers or water sources; Arsenic-containing waste is regulated as hazardous waste.
SPECIAL NOTE ON ARSENIC POISONING (ARSENICISM):
Arsenic poisoning (arsenicism) is a serious health concern:
-
Acute Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, garlic odor on breath
-
Chronic Exposure: Skin lesions; Hyperkeratosis; Peripheral neuropathy; Cardiovascular disease; Various cancers
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Mechanism: Interferes with cellular metabolism; Enzyme inhibition; DNA damage
-
Prevention: Minimize exposure; Use appropriate PPE; Regular medical surveillance
LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this document is based on our current knowledge and experience and is presented in good faith. However, as all conditions of use are beyond our control, this document does not constitute a binding specification or warranty. This Technical Data Sheet is for informational purposes only. Users are responsible for testing suitability for their own applications. For complete safety, storage, handling, transportation, waste, and regulatory compliance information, please refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier.
