Copper fluoride has a monoclinic crystal structure and cannot achieve a higher-symmetry structure. It forms rectangular prisms with a parallelogram base.
Uses
Copper fluoride can be used to make fluorinated aromatic hydrocarbons by reacting with aromatic hydrocarbons in an oxygen-containing atmosphere at temperatures above 450 °C. This reaction is simpler than the Sandmeyer reaction, but is only effective in making compounds that can survive at the temperature used. A coupled reaction using oxygen and 2 HF regenerates the copper fluoride, producing water. This method has been proposed as a "greener" method of producing fluoroaromatics since it avoids producing toxic waste products such as NaF and NH4F salts.
Chemistry
Copper fluoride can be synthesized from copper and fluorine at temperatures of 400 °C. It occurs as a direct reaction. It loses fluorine in the molten stage at temperatures above 950 °C. The complex anions of CuF3−, CuF42− and CuF64− are formed if CuF2 is exposed to substances containing fluoride ions F−.
Solubility
Copper fluoride is slightly soluble in water, but starts to decompose when it is in hot water, producing basic F− and Cu ions.
Toxicity
There is little specific information on the toxicity of Copper fluoride. However, copper and fluoride can both be toxic individually when consumed. Copper toxicity can affect the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Serious conditions include metal fume fever, and hemolysis of red blood cells. Copper can also cause damage to the liver and other major organs. Fluoride is safe at low levels and is added to water in many countries to protect against tooth decay. At higher levels it can cause toxic effects ranging from nausea and vomiting to tremors, breathing problems, serious convulsions and even coma. Brain and kidney damage can result. Chronic exposure can cause losses in bone density, weight loss and anorexia.
Hazards
Experiments using copper fluoride should be conducted in a fume hood because metal oxide fumes can occur. The combination of acids with copper fluoride may lead to the production of hydrogen fluoride, which is highly toxic and corrosive.
