Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Chemistry => Topic started by: valeg96 on 29/03/2014 20:58:12

Title: Best method for production/storage of Schweizer's reagent?
Post by: valeg96 on 29/03/2014 20:58:12

What is the most practical method for producing and storing Schweizer's reagent [Cu(NH₃)₄(H₂O)₂](OH)₂? Should I follow the

CuCO₃+NaOH -> NH₃ procedure or the CuSO₄+NH₃ -> NaOH?

Is it more easy and practical to dry it out or to store it liquid? Will it release ammonia gas both in the crystalline and the aqueous form? What if stored with cellulose dissolved in it already? Will it preserve longer?

Title: Re: Best method for production/storage of Schweizer's reagent?
Post by: SorryDnoodle on 30/03/2014 00:05:32

Maybe I am thinking of another Reagent but doesn't it decompose when you try and dry it out?
I think it decomposes to Copper hydroxide along with Water and Ammonia vapor.

Title: Re: Best method for production/storage of Schweizer's reagent?
Post by: valeg96 on 30/03/2014 09:59:34

Yes, that's why I'm asking. Sources on the net say it can be also dried out but I am not convinced of its usefulness at all.

Title: Re: Best method for production/storage of Schweizer's reagent?
Post by: SorryDnoodle on 31/03/2014 18:03:38

Quote from: valeg96 on 30/03/2014 09:59:34

Yes, that's why I'm asking. Sources on the net say it can be also dried out but I am not convinced of its usefulness at all.

Strange, Personally I would keep it in a sealed glass container as most of my chemicals. But why not experiment? Try both at the same time and see what happens.