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Copper

PubChem CID
23978
Structure
Copper_small.png
Chemical Safety
Environmental Hazard
Molecular Formula
Synonyms
  • COPPER
  • 7440-50-8
  • CU
  • Copper powder
  • cuprum
Molecular Weight
63.55 g/mol
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Element Name
Copper
Dates
  • Create:
    2004-09-16
  • Modify:
    2025-01-04
Description
Copper is a metal that occurs naturally throughout the environment, in rocks, soil, water, and air. Copper is an essential element in plants and animals (including humans), which means it is necessary for us to live. Therefore, plants and animals must absorb some copper from eating, drinking, and breathing. Copper is used to make many different kinds of products like wire, plumbing pipes, and sheet metal. U.S. pennies made before 1982 are made of copper, while those made after 1982 are only coated with copper. Copper is also combined with other metals to make brass and bronze pipes and faucets. Copper compounds are commonly used in agriculture to treat plant diseases like mildew, for water treatment and, as preservatives for wood, leather, and fabrics.
Reddish lustrous malleable odorless metallic solid.
Copper atom is a copper group element atom and a metal allergen. It has a role as a micronutrient and an Escherichia coli metabolite.
See also: Copper Gluconate (active moiety of); Copper Naphthenate (active moiety of); Cupric sulfate, basic copper sulfate dibasic (active moiety of) ... View More ...

1 Structures

1.1 2D Structure

Chemical Structure Depiction
Copper.png

1.2 Crystal Structures

2 Names and Identifiers

2.1 Computed Descriptors

2.1.1 IUPAC Name

copper
Computed by Lexichem TK 2.7.0 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.2 InChI

InChI=1S/Cu
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.3 InChIKey

RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.4 SMILES

[Cu]
Computed by OEChem 2.3.0 (PubChem release 2024.12.12)

2.2 Molecular Formula

Cu
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.3 Other Identifiers

2.3.1 CAS

7440-50-8

2.3.2 Deprecated CAS

133353-46-5, 133353-47-6, 1441640-38-5, 195161-80-9, 1993435-25-8, 2056901-56-3, 2432029-48-4, 2702957-29-5, 65555-90-0, 72514-83-1
133353-46-5, 133353-47-6, 195161-80-9, 72514-83-1

2.3.3 European Community (EC) Number

231-159-6

2.3.4 UNII

789U1901C5

2.3.5 UN Number

3089

2.3.6 ChEBI ID

CHEBI:28694

2.3.7 DrugBank ID

DB09130

2.3.8 DSSTox Substance ID

DTXSID2023985

2.3.9 ICSC Number

0240

2.3.10 KEGG ID

C00070

2.3.11 NCI Thesaurus Code

C391

2.3.12 Nikkaji Number

J3.733H

2.3.13 RTECS Number

GL5325000

2.3.14 RXCUI

2837

2.3.15 Wikidata

Q753

2.3.16 Wikipedia

Copper

2.4 Synonyms

2.4.1 MeSH Entry Terms

  • Copper
  • Copper 63
  • Copper-63

2.4.2 Depositor-Supplied Synonyms

3 Chemical and Physical Properties

3.1 Computed Properties

Property Name
Molecular Weight
Property Value
63.55 g/mol
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Rotatable Bond Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Exact Mass
Property Value
62.929597 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Monoisotopic Mass
Property Value
62.929597 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Topological Polar Surface Area
Property Value
0 Ų
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Heavy Atom Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Formal Charge
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Complexity
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Isotope Atom Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Compound Is Canonicalized
Property Value
Yes
Reference
Computed by PubChem (release 2021.10.14)

3.2 Experimental Properties

3.2.1 Physical Description

Reddish lustrous malleable odorless metallic solid.
Liquid; Dry Powder; Dry Powder, Other Solid; Liquid, Other Solid; Other Solid; Dry Powder, Water or Solvent Wet Solid; Dry Powder, Pellets or Large Crystals, Water or Solvent Wet Solid, Liquid; Pellets or Large Crystals
Reddish, lustrous, malleable, odorless solid; [NIOSH]
SOLID IN VARIOUS FORMS. TURNS GREEN ON EXPOSURE TO MOIST AIR.
Reddish, lustrous, malleable, odorless solid.

3.2.2 Color / Form

Reddish, lustrous, ductile, malleable metal
Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996., p. 426
Red metal; cubic
Lide, D.R. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 79th ed. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press Inc., 1998-1999., p. 4-54

3.2.3 Odor

Odorless /Copper dusts and mists/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 97-140. Washington, D.C. U.S. Government Printing Office, 1997., p. 76

3.2.4 Boiling Point

4703 °F at 760 mmHg (NIOSH, 2024)
2597
MSDS
2595 °C
Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996., p. 426
4703 °F

3.2.5 Melting Point

1981 °F (NIOSH, 2024)
1083
MSDS
1083 °C
Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996., p. 426
1981 °F

3.2.6 Solubility

Insoluble (NIOSH, 2024)
8.96g/mL
MSDS
Slightly sol in dilute acid
Lide, D.R. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 79th ed. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press Inc., 1998-1999., p. 4-54
Slowly soluble in ammonia water
Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996., p. 426
Solubility in water: none
Insoluble

3.2.7 Density

8.94 (NIOSH, 2024) - Denser than water; will sink
8.94
Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996., p. 426
Relative density (water = 1): 8.9

3.2.8 Vapor Pressure

0 mmHg (approx) (NIOSH, 2024)
1 mm Hg @ 1628 °C
Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. Vol 1-3 7th ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1989., p. 950
0 mmHg (approx)

3.2.9 LogP

-0.57 (calculated)

3.2.10 Stability / Shelf Life

BECOMES DULL WHEN EXPOSED TO AIR. IN MOIST AIR GRADUALLY BECOMES COATED WITH GREEN BASIC CARBONATE.
The Merck Index. 10th ed. Rahway, New Jersey: Merck Co., Inc., 1983., p. 358

3.2.11 Heat of Vaporization

1150 cal/g
Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996., p. 426

3.2.12 Other Experimental Properties

Lustrous, ductile, malleable metal; Mohs' hardness: 3.0; specific resistance: 1.673 microohm/cm; heat of fusion: 48.9 cal/g; heat capacity (solid): 0.092 cal/g/deg C at 20 °C, (liq): 0.112 cal/g/deg C; becomes dull when exposed to air; two naturally occurring isotopes: 63 (69.09%), 65 (30.91%); 9 artificial isotopes
Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996., p. 426
Very slowly attacked by cold hydrochloric acid or dil sulfuric acid; readily by dil nitric acid, and by both not conch sulfuric acid and hydrobromic acid. It is also attacked by acetic acid and other organic acids.
Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996., p. 426
COPPER FORMS TWO SERIES OF SALTS, CU(1+) AND CU(2+) BOTH VALENCE TYPES FORM COMPLEX IONS THAT ARE STABLE.
Sax, N.I. and R.J. Lewis, Sr. (eds.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 11th ed. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold Co., 1987., p. 308
Ductile, excellent conductor of electricity. Complexing agent, coordination numbers 2 and 4. More resistant to atmospheric corrosion than iron, forming green layer of hydrated basic carbonate. Readily attacked by alkalies. Noncombustible, except as powder.
Lewis, R.J., Sr (Ed.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 13th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997., p. 297
For more Other Experimental Properties (Complete) data for COPPER, ELEMENTAL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

3.3 SpringerMaterials Properties

3.4 Chemical Classes

Metals -> Elements, Metallic
Trace element

3.4.1 Drugs

3.4.1.1 Human Drugs
Human drug -> Prescription
Human drug -> Discontinued
Human drug -> Active ingredient (COPPER)
3.4.1.2 Animal Drugs
Pharmaceuticals -> UK Veterinary Medicines Directorate List
S104 | UKVETMED | UK Veterinary Medicines Directorate's List | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.7802119

3.4.2 Cosmetics

Cosmetics ingredient -> Colorant; Other (Specify)
Cosmetic colorant
S13 | EUCOSMETICS | Combined Inventory of Ingredients Employed in Cosmetic Products (2000) and Revised Inventory (2006) | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2624118

3.4.3 Food Additives

Drugs, Cosmetics -> FDA Regulatory Status of Color Additives

5 Chemical Vendors

6 Drug and Medication Information

6.1 Drug Indication

For use in the supplementation of total parenteral nutrition and in contraception with intrauterine devices.
FDA Label

6.2 LiverTox Summary

Copper is an essential trace element that is included in some over-the-counter multivitamin and mineral supplements, even though copper deficiency is quite rare and supplementation is rarely needed. The amounts of copper found in typical supplements has not been associated with serum enzyme elevations or with clinically apparent liver injury. However, accidental or intentional copper overdose can cause an acute liver injury and chronic ingestion of excessive amounts of copper can result in copper overload and chronic liver injury.

6.3 Drug Classes

Trace Elements and Metals

6.4 FDA Approved Drugs

6.5 FDA Orange Book

6.6 FDA National Drug Code Directory

6.7 Drug Labels

Drug and label
Active ingredient and drug
Homeopathic product and label

6.8 Clinical Trials

6.8.1 ClinicalTrials.gov

6.8.2 EU Clinical Trials Register

6.8.3 NIPH Clinical Trials Search of Japan

6.9 Therapeutic Uses

Copper has a contraceptive effect when present in the uterus. It is added to some intrauterine contraceptive devices permitting reduction in their size with concomitant reduction in the associated side effects such as pain and bleeding.
Reynolds, J.E.F., Prasad, A.B. (eds.) Martindale-The Extra Pharmacopoeia. 28th ed. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1982., p. 930

6.10 Reported Fatal Dose

10 to 20 grams for an adult human. (T17)
T17: Baselt RC (2000). Disposition of Toxic Drugs and Chemicals in Man, 5th ed. Foster City, CA: Chemical Toxicology Institute.

7 Food Additives and Ingredients

7.1 Food Additive Classes

JECFA Functional Classes
Food Contaminant -> METALS;

7.2 Color Additive Status

Color Additive
Copper Metallic Powder
Use
Drugs, Cosmetics
Restrictions
Externally applied drugs including eye area use. Cosmetics generally including eye area use.
End Note
2 - The year approved is based on the date listed in the "Confirmation of Effective Date" notice for the action as published in the Federal Register.
Color additive regulations in 21 eCFR

73.1647

73.2647

7.3 Associated Foods

7.4 Evaluations of the Joint FAO / WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives - JECFA

Chemical Name
COPPER
Evaluation Year
1982
Comments
The level of copper in food meets the nutritional requirements (2-3 mg/day for adults; 0.5-0.7 mg/day for infants). Copper is not carcinogenic in either humans or animals, and copper salts are not embryotoxic in rodents. Highly-exposed populations do not appear to be adversely affected, nor does copper appear to be a cumulative toxic hazard for man, except for individuals with Wilson's disease. On this basis, the previous tentative evaluation of a maximum daily load of 0.5 mg/kg bw was reaffirmed as a provisional value for a maximum tolerable intake of 0.5 mg/kg bw per day from all sources.
Report
Tox Monograph

8 Agrochemical Information

8.1 Agrochemical Category

Algaecide,Microbiocide

9 Minerals

1 of 7
Name
Formula
PtS
System
Quadratic (tetragonal)
2 of 7
Name
Formula
Cu
System
Cubic
3 of 7
Name
4 of 7
Name
5 of 7
Name
copper
Link
6 of 7
Name
Copper
Formula
Cu
IMA Symbol
Cu
PDF Link
copper.pdf
Crystal Structure Data Link
American Mineralogist Crystal Structure Database
7 of 7
Mineral Description
Copper is usually found in nature in association with sulfur. Pure copper metal is generally produced from a multistage process, beginning with the mining and concentrating of low-grade ores containing copper sulfide minerals, and followed by smelting and electrolytic refining to produce a pure copper cathode. An increasing share of copper is produced from acid leaching of oxidized ores. Copper is one of the oldest metals ever used and has been one of the important materials in the development of civilization. Because of its properties, singularly or in combination, of high ductility, malleability, and thermal and electrical conductivity, and its resistance to corrosion, copper has become a major industrial metal, ranking third after iron and aluminum in terms of quantities consumed. Electrical uses of copper, including power transmission and generation, building wiring, telecommunication, and electrical and electronic products, account for about three quarters of total copper use. Building construction is the single largest market, followed by electronics and electronic products, transportation, industrial machinery, and consumer and general products. Copper byproducts from manufacturing and obsolete copper products are readily recycled and contribute significantly to copper supply.
USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries (PDF links)
2010 | 2011 | 2012 |2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024
USGS Mineral Yearbook (PDF links)
2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020

10 Pharmacology and Biochemistry

10.1 Pharmacodynamics

Copper is incorporated into many enzymes throughout the body as an essential part of their function. Copper ions are known to reduce fertility when released from copper-containing IUDs.

10.2 MeSH Pharmacological Classification

Trace Elements
A group of chemical elements that are needed in minute quantities for the proper growth, development, and physiology of an organism. (From McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms, 4th ed) (See all compounds classified as Trace Elements.)

10.3 FDA Pharmacological Classification

1 of 8
FDA UNII
789U1901C5
Active Moiety
COPPER
Pharmacological Classes
Chemical Structure [CS] - Copper
Pharmacological Classes
Established Pharmacologic Class [EPC] - Copper-containing Intrauterine Device
Pharmacological Classes
Physiologic Effects [PE] - Decreased Embryonic Implantation
Pharmacological Classes
Physiologic Effects [PE] - Decreased Sperm Motility
Pharmacological Classes
Physiologic Effects [PE] - Inhibit Ovum Fertilization
2 of 8
Non-Proprietary Name
COPPER
Pharmacological Classes
Decreased Sperm Motility [PE]; Inhibit Ovum Fertilization [PE]; Decreased Embryonic Implantation [PE]; Copper [CS]; Copper-containing Intrauterine Device [EPC]
3 of 8
Non-Proprietary Name
CUPRUM 17 SPECIAL ORDER
Pharmacological Classes
Inhibit Ovum Fertilization [PE]; Decreased Sperm Motility [PE]; Copper [CS]; Copper-containing Intrauterine Device [EPC]; Decreased Embryonic Implantation [PE]
4 of 8
Non-Proprietary Name
CUPRUM 21 SPECIAL ORDER
Pharmacological Classes
Decreased Sperm Motility [PE]; Inhibit Ovum Fertilization [PE]; Decreased Embryonic Implantation [PE]; Copper [CS]; Copper-containing Intrauterine Device [EPC]
5 of 8
Non-Proprietary Name
CUPRUM 21X
Pharmacological Classes
Decreased Embryonic Implantation [PE]; Copper [CS]; Copper-containing Intrauterine Device [EPC]; Decreased Sperm Motility [PE]; Inhibit Ovum Fertilization [PE]
6 of 8
Non-Proprietary Name
CUPRUM 5
Pharmacological Classes
Decreased Embryonic Implantation [PE]; Copper-containing Intrauterine Device [EPC]; Copper [CS]; Decreased Sperm Motility [PE]; Inhibit Ovum Fertilization [PE]
7 of 8
Non-Proprietary Name
CUPRUM 8 SPECIAL ORDER
Pharmacological Classes
Decreased Sperm Motility [PE]; Inhibit Ovum Fertilization [PE]; Decreased Embryonic Implantation [PE]; Copper [CS]; Copper-containing Intrauterine Device [EPC]
8 of 8
Non-Proprietary Name
CUPRUM METALLICUM
Pharmacological Classes
Decreased Sperm Motility [PE]; Inhibit Ovum Fertilization [PE]; Decreased Embryonic Implantation [PE]; Copper-containing Intrauterine Device [EPC]; Copper [CS]

10.4 ATC Code

G - Genito urinary system and sex hormones

G02 - Other gynecologicals

G02B - Contraceptives for topical use

G02BA - Intrauterine contraceptives

G02BA02 - Plastic IUD with copper

10.5 Absorption, Distribution and Excretion

Absorption
Copper absorption varies inversely with intake. Absorption range is 12-65%.
Route of Elimination
Copper appears to be eliminated primarily through bile.
Small fragments of copper ... in the anterior vitreous just behind the lens in a number of cases have been observed for years, gradually dissolving & disseminating copper to lens, cornea & iris, where copper has a predilection for the basement membranes.
Grant, W.M. Toxicology of the Eye. 3rd ed. Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas Publisher, 1986., p. 261
Copper dissolved from the wire used in certain intrauterine contraceptive devices has been shown to be absorbed systemically.
International Labour Office. Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 4th edition, Volumes 1-4 1998. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1998., p. 63.14
... Intrauterine devices containing metallic copper ... raise the endometrial copper concentration 2 fold, & this copper excess might be transferred to the fetus.
Friberg, L., Nordberg, G.F., Kessler, E. and Vouk, V.B. (eds). Handbook of the Toxicology of Metals. 2nd ed. Vols I, II.: Amsterdam: Elsevier Science Publishers B.V., 1986., p. V2 247
Circadian rhythms in the urinary excretion of eleven heavy metals and organic substances were examined under free, water restrictive and water loading conditions for 6 days (2 days for each of the three conditions) in twenty metal workers exposed to lead, zinc, and copper. Circadian rhythms were found for all heavy metals and organic substances as well as for urinary flow rate, creatinine and total urinary solutes. The rhythm in the copper excretion depends on the creatinine rhythm, ie the rhythm of glomerular filtration.
PMID:3350598
Aono H, Araki S; Int Arch Occup Environ Health 60 (1): 1-6 (1988)
For more Absorption, Distribution and Excretion (Complete) data for COPPER, ELEMENTAL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

10.6 Metabolism / Metabolites

Copper is mainly absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, but it can also be inhalated and absorbed dermally. It passes through the basolateral membrane, possibly via regulatory copper transporters, and is transported to the liver and kidney bound to serum albumin. The liver is the critical organ for copper homeostasis. In the liver and other tissues, copper is stored bound to metallothionein, amino acids, and in association with copper-dependent enzymes, then partitioned for excretion through the bile or incorporation into intra- and extracellular proteins. The transport of copper to the peripheral tissues is accomplished through the plasma attached to serum albumin, ceruloplasmin or low-molecular-weight complexes. Copper may induce the production of metallothionein and ceruloplasmin. The membrane-bound copper transporting adenosine triphosphatase (Cu-ATPase) transports copper ions into and out of cells. Physiologically normal levels of copper in the body are held constant by alterations in the rate and amount of copper absorption, compartmental distribution, and excretion. (L277, L279)
L277: Wikipedia. Copper. Last Updated 29 May 2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copper
L279: International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS) INCHEM (1998). Environmental Health Criteria for Copper. http://www.inchem.org/documents/ehc/ehc/ehc200.htm

10.7 Biological Half-Life

Whole body: 4 weeks; [TDR, p. 392]
TDR - Ryan RP, Terry CE, Leffingwell SS (eds). Toxicology Desk Reference: The Toxic Exposure and Medical Monitoring Index, 5th Ed. Washington DC: Taylor & Francis, 1999., p. 392

10.8 Mechanism of Action

Copper is absorbed from the gut via high affinity copper uptake protein and likely through low affinity copper uptake protein and natural resistance-associated macrophage protein-2. It is believed that copper is reduced to the Cu1+ form prior to transport. Once inside the enterocyte, it is bound to copper transport protein ATOX1 which shuttles the ion to copper transporting ATPase-1 on the golgi membrane which take up copper into the golgi apparatus. Once copper has been secreted by enterocytes into the systemic circulation it remain largely bound by ceruloplasmin (65-90%), albumin (18%), and alpha 2-macroglobulin (12%). Copper is an essential element in the body and is incorporated into many oxidase enzymes as a cofactor. It is also a component of zinc/copper super oxide dismutase, giving it an anti-oxidant role. Copper defiency occurs in Occipital Horn Syndrome and Menke's disease both of which are associated with impaired development of connective tissue due to the lack of copper to act as a cofactor in protein-lysine-6-oxidase. Menke's disease is also associated with progressive neurological impairment leading to death in infancy. The precise mechanisms of the effects of copper deficiency are vague due to the wide range of enzymes which use the ion as a cofactor. Copper appears to reduce the viabilty and motility of spermatozoa. This reduces the likelihood of fertilization with a copper IUD, producing copper's contraceptive effect. The exact mechanism of copper's effect on sperm are unknown.
The reason for the less severe reaction when the foreign body is at a distance from the retina has been proposed to be ... that near the retina & its blood vessels there is greater oxygen tension than at a distance, which causes metallic copper to oxidize to toxic copper compounds more rapidly close to or in contact with the retina than at a distance. Furthermore, the abscess formation that is characteristic of copper undergoing oxidation close to the retina & choroiod can be attributed to attraction of polymorphonuclear leukocytes from these nearby vascular tissues, which become heavily infiltrated. Liquefaction & disorganization of the vitreous body has been explained on the basis of copper catalysis of oxidation of ascorbic acid, leading to depolymerization of the hyaluronic acid of the vitreous humor. Changes in protein & hexosamine content have also been related to decrease in viscosity of the vitreous humor. Increased content of amino acids in the vitreous humor has been consistent with proteolysis of the vitreous body, but decreased concentration in the aqueous humor has suggested suppression of secretion of amino acids by the ciliary body under the influence of copper.
Grant, W.M. Toxicology of the Eye. 3rd ed. Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas Publisher, 1986., p. 262

11 Use and Manufacturing

11.1 Uses

EPA CPDat Chemical and Product Categories
The Chemical and Products Database, a resource for exposure-relevant data on chemicals in consumer products, Scientific Data, volume 5, Article number: 180125 (2018), DOI:10.1038/sdata.2018.125
Sources/Uses
Copper exposures can occur while working in copper and brass foundries and smelters; while welding or electroplating; and during the production or use of fungicides, ceramics, pyrotechnics, pigments, and analytical reagents. [ACGIH] Copper is an essential element in the human diet; it is necessary for the functioning of several enzymes; [Nordberg, p. 765]
ACGIH - Documentation of the TLVs and BEIs, 7th Ed. Cincinnati: ACGIH Worldwide, 2020.
Nordberg - Nordberg GF, Fowler BA, Nordberg M (eds). Handbook on the Toxicology of Metals, 4th Ed. Boston: Elsevier, 2015., p. 765
Industrial Processes with risk of exposure

Metal Preparation and Pouring [Category: Foundry]

Welding [Category: Weld]

Electroplating [Category: Plate]

Smelting Copper or Lead [Category: Industry]

Painting (Pigments, Binders, and Biocides) [Category: Paint]

Applying Wood Preservatives [Category: Other]

Welding Over Coatings [Category: Weld]

Metal Extraction and Refining [Category: Industry]

Activities with risk of exposure
Jewelry making [Category: Hobbies]
For Copper (USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 022501) ACTIVE products with label matches. /SRP: Registered for use in the U.S. but approved pesticide uses may change periodically and so federal, state and local authorities must be consulted for currently approved uses./
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Pesticide Program's Chemical Ingredients Database on Copper (7440-50-8). Available from, as of Sept 8, 2000: https://npirspublic.ceris.purdue.edu/ppis/
Electrical wiring; switches; plumbing; heating; roofing and building construction; chemical and pharmaceutical machinery; alloys (brass, bronze, Monel metal, beryllium-copper); electroplated protective coatings and undercoats for nickel, chromium, zinc, etc., cooking utensils; corrosion-resistant piping; insecticides; catalysts; antifouling paints. Flakes used as insulation for liquid fuels. Whiskers used in thermal and electrical composites.
Lewis, R.J., Sr (Ed.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 13th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997., p. 297
In works of art; manufacture of bronzes, brass, other copper alloys, electrical conductors, ammunition, copper salts
Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996., p. 426
In a statistical analyses of the copper, brass and bronze industry, there are five primary markets: (1) building construction (41%), including building wiring, plumbing, and heating; air conditioning (qv) and commercial refrigeration; builders' hardware, and architectural materials; (2) electrical and electronic products (23%), for example power utilities, telecommunications, business electronics and lighting and wiring devices; (3) industrial machinery and equipment, (14%) such as in-plant equipment, industrial valves and fittings, nonelectrical instruments, off-highway vehicles, and heat exchangers; (4) transportation equipment (12%), including automobiles, trucks and buses, railroads, marine vehicles, aircraft, and aerospace vehicles; and consumer and general products (10%), such as appliances, cord sets, ordnance, consumer electronics, fasteners, coinage, utensils and cutlery, and miscellaneous items.
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 4th ed. Volumes 1: New York, NY. John Wiley and Sons, 1991-Present., p. V7 (93) 425
For more Uses (Complete) data for COPPER, ELEMENTAL (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.
Synthetic Polymer MALDI Matrix Compounds
Substance listed with specific concentration in tattoo ink and/or permanent make up according to EU Commission Regulation 2020/2081. The concentration limit (by weight) is 0.025%.
S86 | TATTOOINK | Regulated Tattoo Ink Ingredients as per EU regulation 2020/2081 | A list of regulated ingredients for tattoo ink and permanent make up (https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/en/news/how-safe-are-our-tattoos-and-permanent-makeup), Appendix 13 added to Commission Regulation (EU) 2020/2081, 14 December 2020 amending Annex XVII of REACH (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2020/2081/oj). Dataset DOI:10.5281/zenodo.5710243
Copper is used as a thermal conductor, an electrical conductor, a building material, and a constituent of various metal alloys such as brass and bronze. Copper compounds have been widely used historically as pigments in decorative art. Copper compounds are also commonly used in agriculture to treat plant diseases like mildew, for water treatment, and as preservatives for wood, leather, and fabrics. (L277, L278)
L277: Wikipedia. Copper. Last Updated 29 May 2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copper
L278: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2004). Toxicological profile for copper. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp132.html

11.1.1 Use Classification

Chemical Classes -> Inorganic substances
Human Drugs -> FDA Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations (Orange Book) -> Active Ingredients
Food Contaminant -> METALS; -> JECFA Functional Classes
Hazard Classes and Categories ->
Cosmetics -> Cosmetic colorant
S13 | EUCOSMETICS | Combined Inventory of Ingredients Employed in Cosmetic Products (2000) and Revised Inventory (2006) | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2624118

11.1.2 Industry Uses

  • Other
  • Corrosion inhibitor
  • Abrasives
  • Process regulators
  • Semiconductor and photovoltaic agent
  • Catalyst
  • Processing aids, not otherwise listed
  • Plating agents and surface treating agents
  • Lubricating agent
  • Conductive agent
  • Pigment
  • Fillers
  • Other (specify)
  • Surface modifier
  • Dyes
  • Intermediates
  • Alloys
  • Intermediate
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
https://www.epa.gov/chemical-data-reporting

11.1.3 Consumer Uses

  • Processing aids, not otherwise listed
  • Lubricating agent
  • Conductive agent
  • Other
  • Corrosion inhibitor
  • Filler
  • Dyes
  • Alloys
  • Intermediates
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
  • Fillers
  • Other (specify)
  • Adhesion/cohesion promoter
  • Surface modifier
https://www.epa.gov/chemical-data-reporting

11.1.4 Household Products

California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP)

Cosmetics product ingredient: Copper (Bronze powder; Copper powder; CI 77400)

Reason for Listing:

- Identified as a priority pollutant in California Water Quality Control Plans under section 303(c) of the federal Clean Water Act and in section 131.38 of title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations

- Identified as a pollutant by California or the United States Environmental Protection Agency for one or more water bodies in California under section 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act and section 130.7 of title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations

- Identified with non-cancer endpoints and listed with an inhalation or oral Reference Exposure Level by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment under Health and Safety Code section 44360(b)(2)

Potential Health Impacts: Bioaccumulation, Environmental Persistence, and Respiratory Toxicity

Product count: 41

Household & Commercial/Institutional Products

Information on 59 consumer products that contain Copper in the following categories is provided:

• Auto Products

• Commercial / Institutional

• Hobby/Craft

• Home Maintenance

• Inside the Home

• Landscaping/Yard

• Personal Care

• Pesticides

11.2 Methods of Manufacturing

CRUSH, GRIND, AND CONCENTRATE COPPER ORES BY FLOTATION (SULFIDE ORES) OR LEACHING WITH ACID (OXIDE ORES); SMELT CONCENTRATES TO YIELD A BLISTER COPPER WHICH IS REFINED ELECTROLYTICALLY OR FIRE REFINED
SRI
About 80% of the primary copper in the world comes from low-grade or poor sulfide ores, which are usually treated by pyrometallurgical methods, generally in the following sequence: (1) Beneficiation by froth flotation of ore to copper concentrate; (2) Optional partial roasting to obtain oxidized material or calcines; (3) two-stage pyrometallurgical extraction, (a) smelting concentrates to matte, (b) converting matte by oxidation to crude (converter or blister) copper; (4) Refining the crude copper, usually in two steps, (a) pyrometallurgically to fire-refined copper, (b) electrolytically to high-purity electrolytic copper.
Gerhartz, W. (exec ed.). Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 5th ed.Vol A1: Deerfield Beach, FL: VCH Publishers, 1985 to Present., p. VA7 (86) 479
Most copper is processed using a combination of mining, concentrating, smelting, and refining, or by leaching waste and solvent extraction-electrowinning...
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 4th ed. Volumes 1: New York, NY. John Wiley and Sons, 1991-Present., p. V7 (93) 388
Copper, blister (electrolysis); copper oxide ores + iron (acid leaching/cementation); copper oxide ores + sulphuric acid (acid leaching/electrolysis); copper sulphide ores (heap leaching/cementation); copper sulphide ores (heap leaching/electrolysis); copper-cobalt sulphide ores (ore roasting/ acid leaching/electrolysis); lead bullion (pyrometallurgical refining/Parkes process/Betterton-Kroll process; byproduct of lead production)
Ashford, R.D. Ashford's Dictionary of Industrial Chemicals. London, England: Wavelength Publications Ltd., 1994., p. 235
Copper + chlorine (reaction); copper hydroxide/cupric oxide/copper carbonate basic + hydrochloric acid (salt formation)
Ashford, R.D. Ashford's Dictionary of Industrial Chemicals. London, England: Wavelength Publications Ltd., 1994., p. 244

11.3 Impurities

/In electrolytic copper/ the highest level of impurities other than oxygen are found only to the extent of 15-30 ppm. Up to 0.05% oxygen is present in the form of copper(I) oxide.
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 4th ed. Volumes 1: New York, NY. John Wiley and Sons, 1991-Present., p. V7 (93) 420
Average impurity levels: Antimony, 3.41 ppm; arsenic, 1.39 ppm; bismuth, 0.36 ppm; iron, 6.07 ppm; lead, 4.08 ppm; oxygen 327.25 ppm; nickel, 3.41 ppm; selenium, 1.10 ppm; silver, 11.19 ppm; sulfur, 10.00 ppm; tellurium, 1.16 ppm; tin, 1.63 ppm.
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 4th ed. Volumes 1: New York, NY. John Wiley and Sons, 1991-Present., p. V7 (93) 420

11.4 Formulations / Preparations

USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code 022501; Trade Names: Allbrinatural copper; ANAC 110; Bronze powder; Cathode copper; Copper bronze; Copper M1; CDA 102; CDA 122; and Copper.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Pesticide Program's Chemical Ingredients Database on Copper (7440-50-8). Available from, as of Sept 8, 2000: https://npirspublic.ceris.purdue.edu/ppis/
Commercial copper (Cu) is available in six general types: Electrolytic tough-pitch, 99.90% Cu; Deoxidized, 99.90% Cu; Oxygen-free, 99.92% Cu; Silver-bearing, 99.90% Cu; Arsenical, 99.68%; Free-cutting, 99.4-99.5%
CONSIDINE. CHEMICAL AND PROCESS TECHNOL ENCYC p.316 (1974)
Forms available: ingots, sheet, rod, wire, tubing, shot, powder; high purity (impurities less than 10 ppm) as single crystals or whiskers.
Lewis, R.J., Sr (Ed.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 13th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997., p. 297

11.5 Consumption Patterns

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS, 54%; BUILDING CONSTRUCTION, 20%; INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT, 13%; TRANSPORTATION, 8%; OTHER (EG, CONSUMER & GENERAL PRODUCTS, CHEM INT), 5% (1982)
SRI
Industrial Sector: Building construction, 43%; electrical and electronic products, 24%; industrial machinery and equipment, 13%; transportation, 10%; and consumer and general products, 10% (1986).
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES p.42 (1987)
Wire mill products accounted for about 49%; brass mill products 46%; foundry powder products 5%.
USGS; Minerals Yearbook 1998 Database on Copper (7440-50-8). Available from, as of August 15, 2000: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/myb/
Building construction 41.4%; electric and electronic products 26.0%; industrial machinery 11.2%; transportation equipment 12.4%; consumer and general products 9.0%
USGS; Minerals Yearbook 1998 Database on Copper (7440-50-8). Available from, as of August 15, 2000: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/myb/

11.6 U.S. Production

Aggregated Product Volume

2019: 1,000,000,000 - <5,000,000,000 lb

2018: 1,000,000,000 - <5,000,000,000 lb

2017: 1,000,000,000 - <5,000,000,000 lb

2016: 1,000,000,000 - <5,000,000,000 lb

https://www.epa.gov/chemical-data-reporting
(1978) 2.70X10+12 G
SRI
(1982) 2.41X10+12 G
SRI
(1986) 3.17X10+12 g
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES p.42 (1987)
Total refined production (1998): 2,490,000 metric tons.
USGS; Minerals Yearbook 1998 Database on Copper (7440-50-8). Available from, as of August 15, 2000: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/myb/

11.7 U.S. Imports

(1978) 4.03X10+11 G
SRI
(1982) 2.58X10+11 G
SRI
(1986) 6.10X10+11 g
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES p.42 (1987)
Refined imports (1998): 683,000 metric tons
USGS; Minerals Yearbook 1998 Database on Copper (7440-50-8). Available from, as of August 15, 2000: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/myb/

11.8 U.S. Exports

(1978) 9.20X10+10 G
SRI
(1982) 3.10X10+10 G
SRI
(1986) 4.40X10+11 g
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES p.42 (1987)
Refined exports (1998):86,200 metric tons
USGS; Minerals Yearbook 1998 Database on Copper (7440-50-8). Available from, as of August 15, 2000: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/myb/

11.9 General Manufacturing Information

Industry Processing Sectors
  • Petroleum Lubricating Oil and Grease Manufacturing
  • Mining (except Oil and Gas) and support activities
  • Organic Fiber Manufacturing
  • Miscellaneous Manufacturing
  • Wholesale and Retail Trade
  • Textiles, apparel, and leather manufacturing
  • Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing
  • All Other Basic Organic Chemical Manufacturing
  • Paint and Coating Manufacturing
  • Machinery Manufacturing
  • Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
  • All Other Basic Inorganic Chemical Manufacturing
  • Pesticide, Fertilizer, and Other Agricultural Chemical Manufacturing
  • Other (requires additional information)
  • Petroleum Refineries
  • Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing
  • Utilities
  • Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing
  • Rubber Product Manufacturing
  • Plastics Product Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Primary Metal Manufacturing
  • Oil and Gas Drilling, Extraction, and Support activities
  • All Other Chemical Product and Preparation Manufacturing
  • Services
  • Printing and Related Support Activities
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
  • Soap, Cleaning Compound, and Toilet Preparation Manufacturing
  • Petrochemical Manufacturing
EPA TSCA Commercial Activity Status
Copper: ACTIVE

11.10 Sampling Procedures

OSW Method 0060. Determination of Metals in Stack Emissions. Prior to sampling, rinse sampling train glassware with hot tap water and wash in hot soapy water. Rinse with reagent water. Soak in 10% (v/v) nitric acid for 4 hours. Rinse with reagent water and acetone. Allow to air dry.
USEPA; EMMI. EPA's Environmental Monitoring Methods Index. Version 1.1 PC# 4082. Rockville, MD: Government Institutes (1997)
OSW Method OSW-A. Methodology for the Determination of Metals Emissions in Exhaust Gases from Hazardous Waste Incineration and Similar Combustion Processes. Store sample in tightly capped polyethylene bottles. All sampling train glassware should be rinsed with hot tap water, washed in hot soapy water, rinsed 6 times with water, soaked in nitric acid solution for 4 hours, rinsed three time with water and a final time with acetone and allowed to air dry.
USEPA; EMMI. EPA's Environmental Monitoring Methods Index. Version 1.1 PC# 4082. Rockville, MD: Government Institutes (1997)
APHA Method 3111, 3500-CU-D,E; Metals by Direct Air-Acetylene Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. Collect samples in plastic or glass containers that have been rinsed with 1+1 HNO3. Acidify samples to a pH < 2 with HNO3. For dissolved metals, filter samples immediately. Analyze within 6 months.
USEPA; EMMI. EPA's Environmental Monitoring Methods Index. Version 1.1 PC# 4082. Rockville, MD: Government Institutes (1997)
OSW Method 7000A-FLAA, -GFAA. Aqueous samples should be acidified with HNO3 at time of collection. If dissolved or suspended metal analysis is to be performed, filter sample at time of collection. Refrigerate all samples at 4 C until analyzed. Analyze within 6 months.
USEPA; EMMI. EPA's Environmental Monitoring Methods Index. Version 1.1 PC# 4082. Rockville, MD: Government Institutes (1997)

12 Identification

12.1 Analytic Laboratory Methods

EPA Method 7210: Copper (Atomic Absorption, Direct Aspiration) Method 7210 is applicable for the determination of metals in solution by atomic absorption spectrometry. Preliminary treatment of wastewater, ground water, EP extracts, and industrial waste is always necessary because of the complexity and variability of sample matrix. After aspiration and atomization of the sample in a flame, a light beam from a hollow cathode lamp or an electrodeless discharge lamp is directed through the flame into a monochromator and onto a detector that measures the amount of light absorbed. ... The light energy absorbed by the flame is a measure of the concentration of that metal in the sample. The performance characteristics for an aqueous sample free of interferences are: a sensitivity of 0.1 mg/l, a detection limit of 0.02 mg/l, and an optimum concentration range 0.2-5 mg/l with wavelength of 324.7 nm. /Total copper/
USEPA: Test Method for Evaluating Solid Waste SW-846 (1986)
OSW Method OSW-A, Methodology for the Determination of Metals Emissions in Exhaust Gases from Hazardous Waste Incineration and Similar Combustion Processes. This method is applicable to the sampling and analysis of metals in stack emissions from incinerators and combustors. Detection limit= 6 ng/ml.
USEPA; EMMI. EPA's Environmental Monitoring Methods Index. Version 1.1 PC# 4082. Rockville, MD: Government Institutes (1997)
APHA Method 3113-B. Metals in Water by Electrothermal Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. Detection limit (unspecified).
USEPA; EMMI. EPA's Environmental Monitoring Methods Index. Version 1.1 PC# 4082. Rockville, MD: Government Institutes (1997)
APHA Method 3111-B,C. Metals by Direct Air-Acetylene Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. This method is applicable to the determination of metals by direct air-acetylene FAAS. Detection limit (unspecified).
USEPA; EMMI. EPA's Environmental Monitoring Methods Index. Version 1.1 PC# 4082. Rockville, MD: Government Institutes (1997)
For more Analytic Laboratory Methods (Complete) data for COPPER, ELEMENTAL (19 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12.2 NIOSH Analytical Methods

ELEMENTS in blood or tissue 8005
METALS in Urine 8310
ELEMENTS ON WIPES, 9102
COPPER (dust and fume) 7029
ELEMENTS by ICP (Nitric/Perchloric Acid Ashing) 7300
ELEMENTS by ICP 7301
ELEMENTS by ICP (Hot Block/HCl/HNO3 Digestion) 7303

13 Safety and Hazards

13.1 Hazards Identification

13.1.1 GHS Classification

1 of 5
View All
Note
This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 52.6% (1795 of 3413) of all reports. Pictograms displayed are for 47.4% (1618 of 3413) of reports that indicate hazard statements.
Pictogram(s)
Irritant
Environmental Hazard
Signal
Warning
GHS Hazard Statements

H302 (22%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H400 (42.9%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410 (18.5%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

H411 (22.6%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

Precautionary Statement Codes

P264, P270, P273, P301+P317, P330, P391, and P501

(The corresponding statement to each P-code can be found at the GHS Classification page.)

ECHA C&L Notifications Summary

Aggregated GHS information provided per 3413 reports by companies from 73 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 1795 of 3413 reports by companies. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

There are 70 notifications provided by 1618 of 3413 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown.

13.1.2 Hazard Classes and Categories

Acute Tox. 4 (22%)

Aquatic Acute 1 (42.9%)

Aquatic Chronic 1 (18.5%)

Aquatic Chronic 2 (22.6%)

Hazardous to the aquatic environment (chronic) - category 2

13.1.3 Health Hazards

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Copper (dusts and mists, as Cu):

Exposure Routes: Inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

Symptoms: Irritation eyes, nose, pharynx; nasal septum perforation; metallic taste; dermatitis; In Animals: lung, liver, kidney damage; anemia

Target Organs: Eyes, skin, respiratory system, liver, kidneys (increased risk with Wilson's disease) (NIOSH, 2024)

13.1.4 Fire Hazards

Excerpt from ERG Guide 170 [Metals (Powders, Dusts, Shavings, Borings, Turnings, or Cuttings, etc.)]:

May react violently or explosively on contact with water. Some are transported in flammable liquids. May be ignited by friction, heat, sparks or flames. Some of these materials will burn with intense heat. Dusts or fumes may form explosive mixtures in air. Containers may explode when heated. May re-ignite after fire is extinguished. (ERG, 2024)

2024 Emergency Response Guidebook, https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/training/hazmat/erg/emergency-response-guidebook-erg
Combustible. Finely dispersed particles form explosive mixtures in air.

13.1.5 Hazards Summary

Copper is a metal that occurs naturally throughout the environment, in rocks, soil, water, and air. Copper is an essential element in plants and animals (including humans), which means it is necessary for us to live. Therefore, plants and animals must absorb some copper from eating, drinking, and breathing. Copper is used to make many different kinds of products like wire, plumbing pipes, and sheet metal. U.S. pennies made before 1982 are made of copper, while those made after 1982 are only coated with copper. Copper is also combined with other metals to make brass and bronze pipes and faucets. Copper compounds are commonly used in agriculture to treat plant diseases like mildew, for water treatment and, as preservatives for wood, leather, and fabrics.
Copper fumes can cause metal fume fever. Hemolytic anemia has been reported after toxic ingestion. [Rosenstock, p. 983] In acidic conditions, metallic copper releases toxic copper ions. Acute copper poisoning can cause liver injury, methemoglobinemia, and hemolytic anemia. Acute renal failure may result, secondary to massive hemoglobinuria. [Goldfrank, p. 1256-60] There are two TLVs, one for Copper, fume, as Cu and one for Copper, dusts and mists, as Cu. There is also a MAK for Copper and its inorganic compounds. [ACGIH] Copper in drinking water at >4 mg/L can cause gastrointestinal distress. At higher doses, ingested copper salts can cause hemolysis and injury to the liver and kidneys. [Nordberg, p. 765] In high-dose animal studies, excess copper is embryotoxic; Women with Wilson's disease (excess copper) may have infertility and increased spontaneous abortions; [REFPROTOX] See Copper sulfate.
Rosenstock - Rosenstock L, Cullen MR, Brodkin CA, Redlich CA (eds). Textbook of Clinical Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2nd Ed. Philadelphia: Elsevier Saunders, 2004., p. 983
Goldfrank - Nelson LS et al (eds). Goldfrank's Toxicologic Emergencies, 9th Ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2011., p. 1256-60
ACGIH - Documentation of the TLVs and BEIs, 7th Ed. Cincinnati: ACGIH Worldwide, 2020.
Nordberg - Nordberg GF, Fowler BA, Nordberg M (eds). Handbook on the Toxicology of Metals, 4th Ed. Boston: Elsevier, 2015., p. 765

13.1.6 Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Irritations

The fumes and dust cause irritation of the upper respiratory tract.
Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 1985. 2nd ed. Park Ridge, NJ: Noyes Data Corporation, 1985., p. 257
Inhalation of copper fume results in the irritation of the upper respiratory tract. ... Contact with copper fumes will also cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat. /Copper fumes/
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 2
Copper or copper salts may induce allergic contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals. Signs & symptoms include itching, redness, swelling, vesicle formation & pustulation. /Copper or copper salts/
WHO; Environ Health Criteria 200: Copper p.148 (1998)

13.2 Safety and Hazard Properties

13.2.1 Flammable Limits

Flammability
Noncombustible Solid in bulk form, but powdered form may ignite.

13.2.2 NIOSH Recommendations

Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 Hr Time-Weighted Avg: 1 mg/cu m. /Copper (dusts and mists)/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 97-140. Washington, D.C. U.S. Government Printing Office, 1997., p. 76

13.3 First Aid Measures

Inhalation First Aid
Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.
Skin First Aid
Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap.
Eye First Aid
Rinse with plenty of water (remove contact lenses if easily possible).
Ingestion First Aid
Rinse mouth. Refer for medical attention .

13.3.1 First Aid

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Copper (dusts and mists, as Cu):

Eye: IRRIGATE IMMEDIATELY - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: SOAP WASH PROMPTLY - If this chemical contacts the skin, promptly wash the contaminated skin with soap and water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, promptly remove the clothing and wash the skin with soap and water. Get medical attention promptly.

Breathing: RESPIRATORY SUPPORT - If a person breathes large amounts of this chemical, move the exposed person to fresh air at once. If breathing has stopped, perform artificial respiration. Keep the affected person warm and at rest. Get medical attention as soon as possible.

Swallow: MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately. (NIOSH, 2024)

(See general first aid procedures)

Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: Soap wash promptly - If this chemical contacts the skin, promptly wash the contaminated skin with soap and water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, promptly remove the clothing and wash the skin with soap and water. Get medical attention promptly.

Breathing: Respiratory support

Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.

13.4 Fire Fighting

Excerpt from ERG Guide 170 [Metals (Powders, Dusts, Shavings, Borings, Turnings, or Cuttings, etc.)]:

DO NOT USE WATER, FOAM OR CO2. Dousing metallic fires with water will generate hydrogen gas, an extremely dangerous explosion hazard, particularly if fire is in a confined environment (i.e., building, cargo hold, etc.). Use DRY sand, graphite powder, dry sodium chloride-based extinguishers, or class D extinguishers. Confining and smothering metal fires is preferable rather than applying water. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: If impossible to extinguish, protect surroundings and allow fire to burn itself out. (ERG, 2024)

2024 Emergency Response Guidebook, https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/training/hazmat/erg/emergency-response-guidebook-erg
Use special powder, dry sand. NO other agents. Water may be ineffective.

13.5 Accidental Release Measures

13.5.1 Isolation and Evacuation

Excerpt from ERG Guide 170 [Metals (Powders, Dusts, Shavings, Borings, Turnings, or Cuttings, etc.)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 50 meters (160 feet).

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

2024 Emergency Response Guidebook, https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/training/hazmat/erg/emergency-response-guidebook-erg

13.5.2 Spillage Disposal

Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

13.5.3 Cleanup Methods

1. VENTILATE AREA OF RELEASE. 2. COLLECT SPILLED MATERIAL IN THE MOST CONVENIENT AND SAFE MANNER FOR RECLAMATION, OR FOR DISPOSAL IN A SECURE SANITARY LANDFILL. LIQ CONTAINING COPPER SHOULD BE ABSORBED IN VERMICULITE, DRY SAND, EARTH, OR A SIMILAR MATERIAL. /COPPER DUSTS & MISTS/
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 4

13.5.4 Disposal Methods

SRP: At the time of review, criteria for land treatment or burial (sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to significant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste residue (including waste sludge), consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices.
Alternative treatment processes for metal bearing hazardous waste streams are reviewed. Precipitation is the preferred treatment process for removing toxic heavy metals from electroplating waters. Precipitation processes include hydroxide, lime and/or sulfide treatment. Chemical reduction is used to treat complex metals such as nickel, copper, hexavalent chromium waste, soluble lead, silver, metal containing cyanide, and mercury. Adsorption has shown potential for treating and polishing aqueous metal bearing wastes. Activated carbon, activated alumina, and iron filings are all applicable adsorbents. Alkaline chlorination and incineration are effective cyanide destruction treatments. Evaporation, ion exchange, reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, and electrolytic recovery are waste reduction and recovery techniques applicable to metal bearing hazardous streams.
Grosse DW; 12th Annual Research Symposium on Land Disposal, Remedial Action, Incineration, and Treatment of Hazardous Wastes (1986)
COPPER DUSTS OR MIST AND COPPER CMPD MAY BE DISPOSED OF IN SEALED CONTAINERS IN A SECURED SANITARY LANDFILL. /COPPER DUSTS & MISTS/
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 4

13.5.5 Preventive Measures

The prevention of metal fume fever is a matter of keeping exposure below the level of concn currently accepted as satisfactory for working with copper in industry. The employment of local exhaust ventilation is a necessary measure to collect fumes at their source.
International Labour Office. Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 4th edition, Volumes 1-4 1998. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1998., p. 63.15
SRP: Local exhaust ventilation should be applied wherever there is an incidence of point source emissions or dispersion of regulated contaminants in the work area. Ventilation control of the contaminant as close to its point of generation is both the most economical and safest method to minimize personnel exposure to airborne contaminants.
The major hazards are exposure to ore dusts during ore processing & smelting, metal fumes ... during smelting, sulfur dioxide & carbon monoxide during most smelting operations, ...& sulfuric acid & electrical hazards during electrolytic processes. Precautions include: local exhaust ventilation (LEV) for dusts during transfer operations; local exhaust & dilution ventilation for sulfur dioxide & carbon monoxide; ... protective clothing and shields... . Respiratory protection is commonly worn to protect against dusts, fumes & sulfur dioxide.
International Labour Office. Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 4th edition, Volumes 1-4 1998. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1998., p. 82.5
Employees should wash promptly when skin is contaminated. Work clothing should be changed daily if clothing is contaminated. Remove nonimpervious clothing promptly if contaminated. /Copper and compounds/
Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 1985. 2nd ed. Park Ridge, NJ: Noyes Data Corporation, 1985., p. 258
For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for COPPER, ELEMENTAL (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.6 Handling and Storage

13.6.1 Nonfire Spill Response

Excerpt from ERG Guide 170 [Metals (Powders, Dusts, Shavings, Borings, Turnings, or Cuttings, etc.)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. (ERG, 2024)

2024 Emergency Response Guidebook, https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/training/hazmat/erg/emergency-response-guidebook-erg

13.6.2 Safe Storage

See Chemical Dangers.

13.7 Exposure Control and Personal Protection

Maximum Allowable Concentration (MAK)
0.01 [mg/m3], respirable fraction (metal and inorg. Compounds)[German Research Foundation (DFG)]

13.7.2 Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL)

0.1 [mg/m3], as Cu(fume),1 mg/m3, as Cu(dust,mist)
TWA 1 mg/m3 [*Note: The PEL also applies to other copper compounds (as Cu) except copper fume.]

13.7.3 Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH)

100 mg Cu/m3 (NIOSH, 2024)

100.0 [mg/m3], as Cu(fume,dust,mist)

Excerpts from Documentation for IDLHs: Exposure to copper fume causes upper respiratory tract irritation, metallic taste, nausea, and metal fume fever. It has been reported that no ill effects resulted from exposures to copper fumes at concentrations up to 0.4 mg Cu/m3 [Luxon 1972] and that there is little evidence that copper presents a serious industrial hazard, either from acute of chronic poisoning [Browning 1969].

Brown - Brown JA. An internet database for the classification and dissemination of information about hazardous chemicals and occupational diseases. Am J Ind Med. 2008; 51: 428-35.ing 1969
100 mg/cu m (as Cu) /Copper dusts and mists/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 97-140. Washington, D.C. U.S. Government Printing Office, 1997., p. 76

100 mg/m3 (as Cu)

See: 7440508

13.7.4 Threshold Limit Values (TLV)

0.2 [mg/m3], as Cu(fume), 1 mg/m3, as Cu(dust,mist)
8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 1 mg/cu m /Copper dusts and mists, as Cu/
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists TLVs and BEIs. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati, OH, 2008, p. 21
Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in worker exposure levels may exceed 3 times the TLV-TWA for no more than a total of 30 minutes during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the TLV-TWA, provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded. /Copper dusts and mists, as Cu/
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists TLVs and BEIs. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati, OH, 2008, p. 5
(fume, as Cu): 0.2 mg/m

13.7.5 Occupational Exposure Limits (OEL)

MAK (Maximale Arbeitsplatz Konzentration)
(respirable fraction): 0.01 mg/m

13.7.6 Other Standards Regulations and Guidelines

Max allowable concn (USSR) 1 mg/cu m (copper dust); 0.01 mg/cu m (copper-chromium-barium catalyst)
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 546

13.7.7 Inhalation Risk

A harmful concentration of airborne particles can be reached quickly when dispersed.

13.7.8 Effects of Short Term Exposure

Inhalation of fumes may cause metal fume fever.

13.7.9 Effects of Long Term Exposure

Repeated or prolonged contact may cause skin sensitization. Ingestion may cause effects on the liver.

13.7.10 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Copper (dusts and mists, as Cu):

Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.

Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.

Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated.

Remove: WHEN WET OR CONTAMINATED - Work clothing that becomes wet or significantly contaminated should be removed and replaced.

Change: DAILY - Workers whose clothing may have become contaminated should change into uncontaminated clothing before leaving the work premises. (NIOSH, 2024)

Copper miners generally wear filtering masks when exposed to dusts from copper ores. The main purpose ... is the retention of free silica in the atmosphere; however, such masks also minimize the inhalation of copper.
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 547
For copper dusts or mists: Wear appropriate clothing to prevent repeated or prolonged skin contact. Wear eye protection to prevent any reasonable probability of eye contact. /Copper dusts or mists/
Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 1985. 2nd ed. Park Ridge, NJ: Noyes Data Corporation, 1985., p. 258
Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact. /Copper dusts and mists/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 97-140. Washington, D.C. U.S. Government Printing Office, 1997., p. 77
Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact. /Copper dusts and mists/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 97-140. Washington, D.C. U.S. Government Printing Office, 1997., p. 77
For more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Complete) data for COPPER, ELEMENTAL (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

(See personal protection and sanitation codes)

Skin: Prevent skin contact - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.

Eyes: Prevent eye contact - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.

Wash skin: When contaminated

Remove: When wet or contaminated

Change: Daily - Workers whose clothing may have become contaminated should change into uncontaminated clothing before leaving the work premises.

13.7.11 Respirator Recommendations

NIOSH/OSHA

Up to 5 mg/m3 :

(APF = 5) Any quarter-mask respirator.

Click here for information on selection of N, R, or P filters.*

Up to 10 mg/m3 :

(APF = 10) Any particulate respirator equipped with an N95, R95, or P95 filter (including N95, R95, and P95 filtering facepieces) except quarter-mask respirators. The following filters may also be used: N99, R99, P99, N100, R100, P100.

Click here for information on selection of N, R, or P filters.*

(APF = 10) Any supplied-air respirator*

Up to 25 mg/m3 :

(APF = 25) Any supplied-air respirator operated in a continuous-flow mode*

(APF = 25) Any powered, air-purifying respirator with a high-efficiency particulate filter.*

Up to 50 mg/m3 :

(APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator with an N100, R100, or P100 filter.

Click here for information on selection of N, R, or P filters.

(APF = 50) Any powered, air-purifying respirator with a tight-fitting facepiece and a high-efficiency particulate filter*

(APF = 50) Any self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece

(APF = 50) Any supplied-air respirator with a full facepiece

Up to 100 mg/m3 :

(APF = 2000) Any supplied-air respirator that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode

Emergency or planned entry into unknown concentrations or IDLH conditions:

(APF = 10,000) Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode

(APF = 10,000) Any supplied-air respirator that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode in combination with an auxiliary self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus

Escape:

(APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator with an N100, R100, or P100 filter.

Click here for information on selection of N, R, or P filters.

Any appropriate escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus

Important additional information about respirator selection

13.7.12 Preventions

Fire Prevention
NO open flames.
Exposure Prevention
PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST!
Inhalation Prevention
Use local exhaust or breathing protection.
Skin Prevention
Protective gloves.
Eye Prevention
Wear safety goggles.
Ingestion Prevention
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

13.8 Stability and Reactivity

13.8.1 Air and Water Reactions

Solid pieces are very slowly oxidized by air to give a green basic carbonate. Solid pieces become covered by a black oxide when heated in air. Insoluble in water.

13.8.2 Reactive Group

Metals, Less Reactive

13.8.3 Reactivity Profile

COPPER combines violently with chlorine trifluoride in the presence of carbon [Mellor 2, Supp. 1, 1956]. Is oxidized by sodium peroxide with incandescence [Mellor 2:490-93, 1946-1947]. Forms an unstable acetylide when acetylene is passed over samples that have been heated enough to form an oxide coating. Reacts more rapidly in powdered or granular form. Subject to explosive reaction then mixed in finely divided form with finely divided bromates chlorates and iodates of barium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, or zinc; these reactions are initiated by heat, percussion, and occasionally light friction [Mellor 2:310, 1946-1947]. A solution of sodium azide in copper pipe with lead joints formed copper azide and lead azide, both of these compounds can detonate [Klotz, 1973].

13.8.4 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities

Reacts violently with ... ammonium nitrate, bromates, chlorates, iodates, chloride, ... ethylene oxide, ... hydrazine mononitrate, hydrazoic acid, ... and potassium oxide ... .
Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 6th ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1984., p. 804
A combination of finely divided copper with finely divided bromates (also chlorates or iodates) of barium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, or zinc will explode with heat, percussion and sometimes light friction.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 12 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 1997., p. 491-64
Unstable acetylides form when acetylene is passed over copper that has been heated enough to form a tarnish of oxide coating.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 12 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 1997., p. 491-64
SODIUM AZIDE ... REACTS VIOLENTLY WITH ... COPPER ... .
National Research Council. Prudent Practices for Handling Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 1981., p. 146
For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for COPPER, ELEMENTAL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.9 Transport Information

13.9.1 DOT Label

Flammable Solid

13.9.2 UN Classification

UN Hazard Class: 4.1; UN Pack Group: II

13.10 Regulatory Information

The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Chemical: Copper
California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP) Reportable Ingredient

Hazard Traits - Bioaccumulation; Environmental Persistence; Hazard Trait Under Review; Respiratory Toxicity

Authoritative List - CWA 303(c); CWA 303(d); OEHHA RELs

Report - if used as a fragrance or flavor ingredient

REACH Registered Substance

Status: Active Update: 26-04-2023 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/15562

Status: Cease Manufacture Update: 26-03-2018 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/23234

New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status
Copper, powder: HSNO Approval: HSR002948 Approved with controls

13.10.1 Atmospheric Standards

... Substances for which a Federal Register notice has been published that included consideration of the serious health effects, including cancer, from ambient air exposure to the substance. Copper (52 FR 5496; Feb 23, 1987) is included on this list.
40 CFR 61.01(b) (7/1/2000)

13.10.2 Federal Drinking Water Standards

EPA 1300 ug/l (Action Level)
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present

13.10.3 Federal Drinking Water Guidelines

EPA 1000 ug/l
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present

13.10.4 State Drinking Water Guidelines

(AZ) ARIZONA 1300 ug/l
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present

13.10.5 Clean Water Act Requirements

The permissible concn of total recoverable copper in water to protect freshwater aquatic life is 5.6 ug/l as a 24 hr avg. The log of this concn should not exceed the numerical value of log (0.94 In (hardness) -1.23). The corresponding value to protect saltwater aquatic life is 4.0 ug/l as a 24 hr avg, and should not exceed 23 ug/l at any time. /Total recoverable copper/
USEPA; Ambient Water Quality Criteria Doc: Copper p.B-14 (1980) EPA 440/5-80-036
Toxic pollutant designated pursuant to section 307(a)(1) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and is subject to effluent limitations. /Copper and cmpd/
40 CFR 401.15 (7/1/2000)

13.10.6 CERCLA Reportable Quantities

Persons in charge of vessels or facilities are required to notify the National Response Center (NRC) immediately, when there is a release of this designated hazardous substance, in an amount equal to or greater than its reportable quantity of 5000 lb or 2270 kg. The toll free number of the NRC is (800) 424-8802; In the Washington D.C. metropolitan area (202) 426-2675. The rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4 (section IV. D.3.b).
40 CFR 302.4 (7/1/2000)

13.10.7 FDA Requirements

Certification of this color additive when used in coloring externally applied drugs, including those intended for use in the area of the eye, in amounts consistent with good manufacturing practice is not necessary for the protection of the public health, and therefore batches thereof are exempt from the certification pursuant to section 721(c) of the act. /Copper powder/
21 CFR 73.1647 (4/1/2000)

13.11 Other Safety Information

Chemical Assessment
IMAP assessments - Copper: Human health tier I assessment

13.11.1 Special Reports

NAS; Medical and Biologic Effects of Environmental Pollutants Copper (1974)
USEPA; Ambient Water Quality Criteria Doc: Copper (1980) EPA 440/5-80-036.
USEPA; Health Issue Assessment: Copper (1987) EPA/600/8-87/001.
USEPA; Drinking Water Criteria Document for Copper (Final Draft) (1985) EPA-600/X-84-190-1
For more Special Reports (Complete) data for COPPER, ELEMENTAL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14 Toxicity

14.1 Toxicological Information

14.1.1 Toxicity Summary

Excess copper is sequestered within hepatocyte lysosomes, where it is complexed with metallothionein. Copper hepatotoxicity is believed to occur when the lysosomes become saturated and copper accumulates in the nucleus, causing nuclear damage. This damage is possibly a result of oxidative damage, including lipid peroxidation. Copper inhibits the sulfhydryl group enzymes such as glucose-6-phosphate 1-dehydrogenase, glutathione reductase, and paraoxonases, which protect the cell from free oxygen radicals. It also influences gene expression and is a co-factor for oxidative enzymes such as cytochrome C oxidase and lysyl oxidase. In addition, the oxidative stress induced by copper is thought to activate acid sphingomyelinase, which lead to the production of ceramide, an apoptotic signal, as well as cause hemolytic anemia. Copper-induced emesis results from stimulation of the vagus nerve. (L277, T49, A174, L280)
A174: Brewer GJ: A brand new mechanism for copper toxicity. J Hepatol. 2007 Oct;47(4):621-2. Epub 2007 Jul 23. PMID:17697726
L277: Wikipedia. Copper. Last Updated 29 May 2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copper
L280: US Environmental Protection Agency (2008). Drinking Water Health Advisory for 2,4-Dinitrotoluene and 2,6-Dinitrotoluene. http://www.epa.gov/OGWDW/ccl/pdfs/reg_determine2/healthadvisory_ccl2-reg2_dinitrotoluenes.pdf
T49: Baxter PJ, Adams PH, & Aw TC (2000). Hunter's Diseases of Occupations. 9th ed. New York, NY: Oxford University Press Inc.

14.1.2 EPA IRIS Information

Substance
Copper
Toxicity Summary
EPA IRIS Summary PDF (Update: Sep-07-1988 )

14.1.3 RAIS Toxicity Values

Inhalation Acute Reference Concentration (RfCa) (mg/m^3)
0.1
Inhalation Acute Reference Concentration Reference
CALEPA
Oral Chronic Reference Dose (RfDoc) (mg/kg-day)
0.04
Oral Chronic Reference Dose Reference
HEAST Current
Oral Subchronic Chronic Reference Dose (RfDos) (mg/kg-day)
0.02
Oral Subchronic Chronic Reference Dose Reference
ATSDR Draft

14.1.4 USGS Health-Based Screening Levels for Evaluating Water-Quality

Chemical
Copper
USGS Parameter Code
01040
Chemical Classes
Trace element
MCL (Maximum Contaminant Levels)[μg/L]
1300
Benchmark Remarks
At tap; Action level (Treatment Technique)
Reference
Smith, C.D. and Nowell, L.H., 2024. Health-Based Screening Levels for evaluating water-quality data (3rd ed.). DOI:10.5066/F71C1TWP

14.1.5 Hepatotoxicity

Acute hepatotoxicity of copper is usually the result of ingestion of toxic amounts (1 to 10 g), often as a suicide attempt. In children, accidental poisoning can occur, particularly with ingestion of coins. Initial symptoms may be metallic taste and gastrointestinal distress due to gastric or small bowel erosions. Acute overdoses of copper can lead to early appearance of cardiovascular collapse, coma and death within hours. Liver injury tends to arise after 24 to 72 hours and is characterized by marked elevations in serum aminotransferase levels, minimal increases in alkaline phosphatase, early appearance of hepatic failure, and elevation in prothrombin time and ensuing jaundice. Shock and renal failure may also be present as well as rhabdomyolysis and severe hemolytic anemia. The overall clinical pattern of the liver injury is that of acute hepatic necrosis, and the hepatic manifestations resemble the acute toxicity of iron and zinc, and can be reproduced in animals. Shock and rhabdomyolysis may contribute to the serum enzyme elevations while hemolytic anemia may account for some of the increase in total bilirubin levels. Therapy of copper overdose includes gastric lavage, fluid replacement, dimercaprol (BAL) and penicillamine, with blood transfusions for hemolytic anemia and dialysis for acute renal failure.

Chronic liver injury from copper occurs with Wilson disease, but has also been described after chronic excessive ingestion of copper and perhaps as a result of chronic environmental exposure, such as from copper tubing used in hemodialysis.

Likelihood score: A[HD] (well known cause of acute and chronic liver injury but only when taken in high doses).

Drug Class: Trace Elements and Metals

14.1.6 NIOSH Toxicity Data

14.1.7 Evidence for Carcinogenicity

Cancer Classification: Group D Not Classifiable as to Human Carcinogenicity
USEPA Office of Pesticide Programs, Health Effects Division, Science Information Management Branch: "Chemicals Evaluated for Carcinogenic Potential" (April 2006)
CLASSIFICATION: D; not classifiable as to human carcinogenicity. BASIS FOR CLASSIFICATION: There are no human data, inadequate animal data from assays of copper compounds, and equivocal mutagenicity data. HUMAN CARCINOGENICITY DATA: None. ANIMAL CARCINOGENICITY DATA: Inadequate.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS). Summary on Copper (7440-50-8). Available from, as of March 15, 2000: https://www.epa.gov/iris/

14.1.8 Carcinogen Classification

Carcinogen Classification
No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).

14.1.9 Health Effects

Copper toxicity, also called copperiedus, refers to the consequences of an excess of copper in the body. Copperiedus can occur from eating acid foods cooked in uncoated copper cookware, or from exposure to excess copper in drinking water or other environmental sources. Very-high doses of copper can damage liver and kidneys, and can even cause death. Copper may induce allergic responses in sensitive individuals. (L278, L279)
L278: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2004). Toxicological profile for copper. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp132.html
L279: International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS) INCHEM (1998). Environmental Health Criteria for Copper. http://www.inchem.org/documents/ehc/ehc/ehc200.htm

14.1.10 Exposure Routes

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and by ingestion.
inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
Oral (L277) ; inhalation (L277) ; dermal (L277)
L277: Wikipedia. Copper. Last Updated 29 May 2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copper

14.1.11 Symptoms

Inhalation Exposure
Cough. Headache. Shortness of breath. Sore throat.
Skin Exposure
Redness.
Eye Exposure
Redness. Pain.
Ingestion Exposure
Abdominal pain. Nausea. Vomiting.
irritation eyes, nose, pharynx; nasal septum perforation; metallic taste; dermatitis; In Animals: lung, liver, kidney damage; anemia
Breathing high levels of copper can cause irritation of the nose and throat. Acute symptoms of copper poisoning by ingestion include vomiting, hematemesis (vomiting of blood), hypotension (low blood pressure), melena (black "tarry" feces), coma, jaundice (yellowish pigmentation of the skin), and gastrointestinal distress. Individuals with glucose-6-phosphate deficiency may be at increased risk of hematologic effects of copper. Hemolytic anemia resulting from the treatment of burns with copper compounds is infrequent. Chronic (long-term) effects of copper exposure can damage the liver and kidneys.

14.1.12 Target Organs

Gastrointestinal (Digestive), Hepatic (Liver)
Eyes, skin, respiratory system, liver, kidneys (increased risk with Wilson's disease)

14.1.13 Adverse Effects

Occupational hepatotoxin - Secondary hepatotoxins: the potential for toxic effect in the occupational setting is based on cases of poisoning by human ingestion or animal experimentation.

Nephrotoxin - The chemical is potentially toxic to the kidneys in the occupational setting.

Methemoglobinemia - The presence of increased methemoglobin in the blood; the compound is classified as secondary toxic effect

Hemolytic anemia - Decreased hemoglobin or number of red blood cells.

Reproductive Toxin - A chemical that is toxic to the reproductive system, including defects in the progeny and injury to male or female reproductive function. Reproductive toxicity includes developmental effects. See Guidelines for Reproductive Toxicity Risk Assessment.

14.1.14 Acute Effects

14.1.15 Toxicity Data

LD50: 3500 ug/kg (Intraperitoneal, Mouse) (T26)
T26: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (2002). RTECS: Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances.

14.1.16 Minimum Risk Level

Acute Oral: 0.01 mg/kg/day (L134) Intermediate Oral: 0.01 mg/kg/day (L134)
L134: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2001). Minimal Risk Levels (MRLs) for Hazardous Substances. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/mrls/

14.1.17 Treatment

In cases of suspected copper poisoning, penicillamine is the drug of choice, and dimercaprol, a heavy metal chelating agent, is often administered. Vinegar is not recommended, as it assists in solubilizing insoluble copper salts.

14.1.18 Antidote and Emergency Treatment

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway. Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with normal saline during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200 ml of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . /Copper and related compounds/
Bronstein, A.C., P.L. Currance; Emergency Care for Hazardous Materials Exposure. 2nd ed. St. Louis, MO. Mosby Lifeline. 1994., p. 350
Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious. Start an IV with lactated Ringer's /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Watch for signs of fluid overload. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors if hypotensive with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Use proparacaine, hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Copper and related compounds/
Bronstein, A.C., P.L. Currance; Emergency Care for Hazardous Materials Exposure. 2nd ed. St. Louis, MO. Mosby Lifeline. 1994., p. 351

14.1.19 Human Toxicity Excerpts

COPPER ITSELF PROBABLY HAS LITTLE OR NO TOXICITY, ALTHOUGH THERE ARE CONFLICTING REPORTS IN LITERATURE.
The Merck Index. 10th ed. Rahway, New Jersey: Merck Co., Inc., 1983., p. 359
The fumes and dust cause irritation of the upper respiratory tract.
Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 1985. 2nd ed. Park Ridge, NJ: Noyes Data Corporation, 1985., p. 257
Inhalation of dusts & fumes of metallic copper ... causes congestion of nasal mucous membranes, ulceration & perforation of the nasal septum, & pharyngeal congestion.
Venugopal, B. and T.D. Luckey. Metal Toxicity in Mammals, 2. New York: Plenum Press, 1978., p. 27
Fumes from the heating of metallic copper can cause metal fume fever, nausea, gastric pain, & diarrhea.
International Labour Office. Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 4th edition, Volumes 1-4 1998. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1998., p. 63.14
For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for COPPER, ELEMENTAL (37 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.20 Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts

To study the mechanism of action of copper intrauterine devices ... in vitro tests on mouse ova ... /were conducted & the results showed/ that copper wire ... /was/ lethal at the blastocyst stage. ... /In another study/ embryo lethality in rats during late preimplantation period /was observed/. This could be due to either a direct action of copper or a secondary effect from the inflammatory reaction of endometrial tissue.
Shepard, T.H. Catalog of Teratogenic Agents. 5th ed. Baltimore, MD: The Johns Hopkins University Press, 1986., p. 148
Highly localized deposits of hepatic and renal copper have been observed in monkeys with copper IUDs and in control monkeys. Both copper and inert material IUDs have been observed to incr plasma copper levels. This may be explained by the observation that stress or inflammation alone can result in incr serum copper levels.
USEPA; Drinking Water Criteria Document for Copper (Final Draft) p.III-5 (1985) EPA-600/X-84-190-1
In order to establish a possible relationship between hemolytic and peroxidant activities of copper ions, lipid peroxidation was studied in plasma and whole blood incubated for 24 hr with different concentrations of copper. The copper induced lipoperoxidation was clearly demonstrated in plasma incubated with high concentrations of copper (12.10X-4 and 20.10X-4 M). With a copper concentration similar to that found in acute copper intoxication (4.10X-4 M) no lipoperoxidation was observed and yet hemolysis occurred, reduced glutathione decreased dramatically and methemoglobin increased. Despite its prooxidant activity and its capacity to produce lipoperoxidation, it has not been proven that copper ions at pathophysiological concentrations induce hemolysis by an oxidative mechanism.
Piriou A et al; Toxicol 47 (3): 351-61 (1987)
The concentration of total plasma bile acids was measured in normal sheep and in sheep in which liver damage was induced by chronic copper poisoning, ligated bile ducts, or induced ketosis. All three treatments produced a rise in total bile acid concentration in plasma which was proportional to the degree of hepatic damage seen histologically and which tended to parallel changes in activity of iditol, and glutamate dehydrogenase and aspartate amino transferase in plasma. Plasma bile acid concentration was a more sensitive method of detecting these types of liver damage than was the measurement of total plasma bilirubin concentration, and could be used to assess alterations in liver function in sheep.
PMID:3685638
West HJ et al; Res Vet Sci 43 (2): 243-8 (1987)
Symptoms of acute copper toxicity are sporadic fever, tachycardia, hypotension, hemolytic anemia with intravascular hemolysis, oliguria, uremia, coma, cardiovasuclar collapse, & death. The prompt emetic effect of copper limits its oral toxicity ... /because it/ irritates the nerve endings in the stomach & initiates the vomiting reflex in higher animals. Inhalation of dusts & fumes ... cause congestion of nasal mucous membranes, ulceration & perforation of the nasal septum, & pharyngeal congestion. ... Highly water soluble copper salts are more toxic than sparingly soluble salts; anions such as arsenite & chromate enhance apparent copper toxicity. /Soluble copper salts/
Venugopal, B. and T.D. Luckey. Metal Toxicity in Mammals, 2. New York: Plenum Press, 1978., p. 27

14.1.21 Populations at Special Risk

Persons at special risk include those with impaired pulmonary function, especially those with obstructive airway diseases, since the breathing of copper fume might cause exacerbation of symptoms due to its irritant properties. /Copper fume/
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 1

14.1.22 Protein Binding

Copper is nearly entirely bound by ceruloplasmin (65-90%), plasma albumin (18%), and alpha 2-macroglobulin (12%).

14.2 Ecological Information

14.2.1 EPA Ecotoxicity

Pesticide Ecotoxicity Data from EPA

14.2.2 US EPA Regional Screening Levels for Chemical Contaminants

1 of 2
Resident Air (ug/m3)
1.60e-03
Industrial Air (ug/m3)
2.00e-02
MCL (ug/L)
1.00e+02
Inhalation Unit Risk (ug/m3)-1
6.20e-04
Volatile
Volatile
Mutagen
Mutagen
Fraction of Contaminant Absorbed in Gastrointestinal Tract
1
2 of 2
Resident Soil (mg/kg)
3.10e+03
Industrial Soil (mg/kg)
4.70e+04
Tapwater (ug/L)
8.00e+02
MCL (ug/L)
1.30e+03
Risk-based SSL (mg/kg)
2.80e+01
MCL-based SSL (mg/kg)
4.60e+01
Chronic Oral Reference Dose (mg/kg-day)
4.00e-02
Volatile
Volatile
Mutagen
Mutagen
Fraction of Contaminant Absorbed in Gastrointestinal Tract
1

14.2.3 US EPA Regional Removal Management Levels for Chemical Contaminants

1 of 2
Resident Air (ug/m3)
1.60e-01
Industrial Air (ug/m3)
2.00e+00
MCL (ug/L)
1.00e+02
Inhalation Unit Risk (ug/m3)-1
6.20e-04
Volatile
Volatile
Mutagen
Mutagen
Fraction of Contaminant Absorbed in Gastrointestinal Tract
1
2 of 2
Resident Soil (mg/kg)
9.40e+03
Industrial Soil (mg/kg)
1.40e+05
Tapwater (ug/L)
2.40e+03
MCL (ug/L)
1.30e+03
Chronic Oral Reference Dose (mg/kg-day)
4.00e-02
Volatile
Volatile
Mutagen
Mutagen
Fraction of Contaminant Absorbed in Gastrointestinal Tract
1

14.2.4 ICSC Environmental Data

The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms. Bioaccumulation of this chemical may occur along the food chain.

14.2.5 Natural Pollution Sources

Occurrence /all forms/ in earth's crust: 70 ppm ... in seawater: 0.001-0.02 ppm. ... found in nature in its native state; also in combined form in several minerals incl chalcopyrite, chalcocite, bornite, tetrahedrite ... enargite ... antlerite.
Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1996., p. 426
Copper is present in concn averaging about 4 ppm in limestones, 55 ppm in igneous rocks, 50 ppm in sandstones, and 45 ppm in shales. The marked concentrations of copper in shales & sandstones suggest that copper in the lithosphere exists largely as adsorbed ions, fine grained particles or as one of many discrete sedimentary copper minerals. Generally, these minerals occur only as sparse tiny grains that are widely disseminated throughout the sedimentary rocks.
Callahan, M.A., M.W. Slimak, N.W. Gabel, et al. Water-Related Environmental Fate of 129 Priority Pollutants. Volume I. EPA-440/4 79-029a. Washington, DC: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, December 1979., p. 11-1

14.2.6 Artificial Pollution Sources

... IN THE VICINITY OF COPPER MINES OR SMELTING WORKS, WHERE THE WATER AND PASTURE HAVE BEEN SHOWN TO BE CONTAMINATED WITH COPPER.
Clarke, M. L., D. G. Harvey and D. J. Humphreys. Veterinary Toxicology. 2nd ed. London: Bailliere Tindall, 1981., p. 45
Smelting operations may produce ... elemental copper ... /and/ it is likely that municipal incineration will produce copper ... .
USEPA; Health Issue Assessment: Copper p.1 (1987) EPA/600/8-87/001

14.2.7 Environmental Fate

Terrestrial Fate: The fate of copper with respect to its leachability in purely organic spruce forest soils was studied. Appreciable mobilization of copper occurred only with prolonged leaching at pH 2.8. Therefore, it does not appear likely that acidic rainfall will result in significant mobilization of copper from organic soils unless the pH of rainfall decreases to < 3. ... Estimated that approx 50% of copper in the top few centimeters of these soils was organically bound, approx 18% was in the hydroxy carbonate form, approx 7% was in the adsorbed state, approx 11% was bound by other anions and 6% was irreversibly adsorbed. Only 3% of the copper was extractable with water at pH 4.5; hence only 3% was mobile at this pH. ... In urbanized areas the effects of land clearing, profile disruption and increased acid rainfall may increase copper mobilization in these soils.
Tyler G; Water, Air, Soil Pollut 9 (2): 137-48 (1978) as cited in USEPA; Health Issue Assessment: Copper p.18 (1987) EPA/600/8-87/001

14.2.8 Environmental Water Concentrations

A study was conducted on the distribution of managanese, iron, copper, lead, and zinc in the water and sediment of Kelang esturary in 1981. The mean total levels of manganese, iron, copper, lead, and zinc in the estuarine water were 27.1 ug/l, 106.5 g/l, 10.0 ug/l, 4.1 ug/l and 17.9 ug/l respectively. The results indicate that Kelang estuary is polluted with lead, manganese, and iron. However, levels of these heavy metals may still be considered safe for aquaculture, if the farm is located at least 10 km away from the river mouth.
Law AT, Singh A; Pertanika 9 (2): 209-18 (1986)

14.2.9 Plant Concentrations

The contents of copper, molybdenum, sulphur, zinc, selenium, iron, manganese, and the copper/molybdenum ratio were determined in different native plant species from a mountain area of central southern Norway. The overall mean values and ranges (mg/kg DM) were copper: 6.0, 0.9-27.2; molybdenum: 0.25, 0.01-3.57; zinc: 77, 8-320; selenium: 0.05, less than 0.01-0.32; iron: 208, 15-2245; manganese: 338, 31-3784; sulfur: (g/100 g DM) 0.20, 0.03-0.56; copper/molybdenum: 79, 1-7955. Levels of the individual elements showed considerable variability, both between and within plant groups. Mineral contents were compared with the established requirements for sheep and cattle, the following conclusion being drawn. The levels of zinc, sulphur, iron, and manganese were found to be adequate for ruminants.
Garmo TH et al; Acta Agric Scand 36 (2): 147-161 (1986)

14.2.10 Probable Routes of Human Exposure

Copper dissolved from the wire used in certain intrauterine contraceptive devices has been shown to be absorbed systemically. An appreciable fraction of the copper dissolved from the tubing commonly used in hemodialysis equipment may be retained by the patient ... .
International Labour Office. Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 4th edition, Volumes 1-4 1998. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1998., p. 63.14
STUDY OF THE LITERATURE DESCRIBING SYMPTOMS OCCASIONALLY OBSERVED IN COPPER & BRASS WORKERS WORKERS DOES NOT ALLOW ONE TO CONCLUDE THAT COPPER INTOXICATION IS OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE. SUCH SYMPTOMS ARE DUE TO POOR WORKING CONDITIONS, PRESENCE OF ARSENIC & LEAD AS IMPURITIES ... .
Hamilton, A., and H. L. Hardy. Industrial Toxicology. 3rd ed. Acton, Mass.: Publishing Sciences Group, Inc., 1974., p. 80
Copper bracelets are worn as a folk remedy for rheumatic disorders; there is no good evidence to justify such a practice.
Reynolds, J.E.F., Prasad, A.B. (eds.) Martindale-The Extra Pharmacopoeia. 28th ed. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1982., p. 930

15 Associated Disorders and Diseases

Associated Occupational Diseases with Exposure to the Compound
Metal fume fever [Category: Acute Poisoning]

16 Literature

16.1 Consolidated References

16.2 NLM Curated PubMed Citations

16.3 Springer Nature References

16.4 Thieme References

16.5 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Literature

16.6 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Literature

16.7 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Literature

17 Patents

17.1 Depositor-Supplied Patent Identifiers

17.2 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Patents

17.3 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Patents

17.4 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Patents

18 Interactions and Pathways

18.1 Protein Bound 3D Structures

View 2252 proteins in NCBI Structure

18.2 Chemical-Target Interactions

18.3 Drug-Drug Interactions

18.4 Pathways

19 Biological Test Results

19.1 BioAssay Results

20 Taxonomy

The LOTUS Initiative for Open Natural Products Research: frozen dataset union wikidata (with metadata) | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.5794106

21 Classification

21.1 MeSH Tree

21.2 NCI Thesaurus Tree

21.3 ChEBI Ontology

21.4 WHO ATC Classification System

21.5 FDA Pharm Classes

21.6 ChemIDplus

21.7 CAMEO Chemicals

21.8 UN GHS Classification

21.9 EPA CPDat Classification

21.10 NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification

21.11 EPA DSSTox Classification

21.12 NIST Synthetic Polymer MALDI Recipes Database Classification

21.13 Consumer Product Information Database Classification

21.14 EPA TSCA and CDR Classification

21.15 LOTUS Tree

21.16 FDA Drug Type and Pharmacologic Classification

21.17 EPA Substance Registry Services Tree

21.18 MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology

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  3. FDA Orange Book
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    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  7. Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
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    https://cameochemicals.noaa.gov/help/reference/terms_and_conditions.htm?d_f=false
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  9. ChEBI
  10. DrugBank
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  30. ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
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  33. California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP) Product Database
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  34. Consumer Product Information Database (CPID)
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