Storage of copper sulfate

Posted in: , on 28. Dec. 2007 - 20:57

I am interested in the bulk storage of copper sulfate. It is my experience that when this material is stored in bulk it can get very hot and actually catch on fire. I assume this is because it is absorbing water from the air and the reaction of anhydrous copper sulfate with water is highly exothermic? Is this the case? Can anything be added to the material to stop this reaction?

I have been told that if the bulk material is cooled to some cridical temp before it is stored that the risk of over heating is eliminated. Is this the case.

Thanks in advance for any help. ■

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Re: Storage Of Copper Sulfate

Posted on 1. Jan. 2008 - 11:16

You can use nitrogen inerting in the silo since it wil be moisture free no heat will be generated. If there is sufficient flow of Nitrogen it can also remove excess moisture which should solve the temperature issues furhter. ■

Mantoo
R.Gopal - Chennai, India
(not verified)

Re: Storage Of Copper Sulfate

Posted on 9. Jan. 2008 - 04:45

Copper sulphate catching fire is rather strange. May be there was some organic contaminants. Unhydrous CuSO4 is slightely whitish in colour and can evolve some heat on hydration. It is better to look for contaminats - usually wood flour or pieces. ■

Lyle Brown
(not verified)

Re: Storage Of Copper Sulfate

Posted on 9. Jan. 2008 - 06:52

Copper sulfate absorbs moisture readily from the surrounding atmosphere. This moisture would then cause the magnesium and ammonium perchlorate to react producing heat, and eventually spontaneous combustion.

http://www.privatedata.com/byb/pyro/pfp/rocket.html

Regards,

Lyle ■