Copper β-alaninate

Formula: Cu(C₃H₆NO₂)₂

Systematic name is copper(II) 3-aminopropanoate.

Salt of copper and amino acid β-alanine

Properties

• Crystal shape: prismatic
• Color: bark blue
• Stability on air: not stable, dehydrate in a matter of days

Preparation

Reaction of β-alanine acid with copper hydroxocarbonate or copper hydroxide in water. Copper hydroxocarbonate can be prepared by reacting any soluble copper salt, such as CuSO₄ with sodium carbonate or hydrocarbonate.

Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂ + 4 C₃H₇NO₂ = 2 Cu(C₃H₆NO₂)₂ + 3 H₂O + CO₂

Growing

Copper β-alaninate is higly soluble in water.

Safety

All copper compounds are moderately toxic. Avoid ingestion.

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