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Chemistry Forums for Students => Organic Chemistry Forum => Topic started by: newinC on February 16, 2010, 06:43:41 PM

Title: Using copper wire in a reaction
Post by: newinC on February 16, 2010, 06:43:41 PM

Hi,
I would like to use copper wire in a small 200 microliter reaction. Does any one know if the wire can just be cut and placed in the reaction or if it has to be cleaned and sanded to get rid of a layer of oxidized copper.
Thanks

Title: Re: Using copper wire in a reaction
Post by: salleebrowne on February 16, 2010, 07:02:42 PM

I guess that it would depend on the reaction and what you are trying to acheive. I have in the past been able to use copper wire without cleaning and sanding and get good results. I suspect however that the best rule of thumb is to sand off the oxidized layer first.

Title: Re: Using copper wire in a reaction
Post by: newinC on February 17, 2010, 10:05:42 AM

Thank You Salleebrowne.