Descrizione
COPPER RESCUE
Eco-friendly selective chelating agent for copper compound removal
What it is Copper Rescue is a green chelating solution specifically designed to form stable complexes with copper(II) ions (Cu²⁺). Based on amino acids — the building blocks of proteins — its formulation is fully biodegradable and does not lead to bioaccumulation in marine sediments, unlike conventional chelators such as EDTA.
Why it matters Traditional copper removal in cultural heritage relies on chelating agents like EDTA or ammonium carbonate, which raise significant environmental and selectivity concerns. EDTA is poorly biodegradable and tends to complex indiscriminately with multiple metal ions, including calcium — a key component of stone, plaster, and marble substrates. Copper Rescue offers a fundamentally different approach: a slower, more selective chelation that targets only copper(II) ions while leaving the surrounding materials untouched.
Laboratory tests on heterogeneous mixtures of insoluble copper compounds and calcium carbonate have demonstrated a copper recovery rate of 100%, compared to only 0.1% calcium removal — confirming exceptional selectivity and precision.
Key features
- 100% green formulation — amino acid-based, fully biodegradable
- No bioaccumulation in marine sediments
- Highly selective for Cu²⁺ ions — does not complex with calcium (Ca²⁺) or other ions
- Comparable efficacy to EDTA and ammonium carbonate, with superior control
- Slower, more gradual action — allowing precise, real-time monitoring of the cleaning process
- Respects the original patina: stops where copper is in metallic state (Cu⁰) or cuprite (Cu₂O, Cu⁺)
- Aqueous solution — compatible with all application methods
How to use
Intended applications Copper Rescue has been developed for the removal of chromatic alterations caused by copper corrosion on stone surfaces, and for the cleaning of bronze and copper alloy artefacts. Its selective action towards Cu²⁺ ions allows the product to respect the noble patina, halting the cleaning process where copper is in metallic form (Cu⁰) or in the cuprite oxidation state (Cu⁺, Cu₂O).
Application methods Copper Rescue is an aqueous solution and can be applied using multiple techniques:
- Swab application — for targeted, localized treatment on small areas or details
- Poultice/compress application — for larger surfaces or areas requiring prolonged contact time. Compatible with all common poultice supports (Japanese tissue, cotton, sepiolite, Arbocel, etc.)
- Gel-supported application — being water-based, Copper Rescue is fully compatible with physical hydrogels (agar, gellan gum, PVA-borax) and chemical gels (Carbopol, Pemulen), offering enhanced control on vertical or complex surfaces
Application notes
- Always perform a preliminary test on a small, inconspicuous area before full application.
- Adjust contact time based on the nature and thickness of the copper corrosion layer.
- Rinse thoroughly with deionized water after treatment.
- For complex interventions requiring customized concentrations or protocols, contact Lab4Green for tailored technical support.
Technical specifications
- Base: amino acids
- Physical state: liquid
- Colour: colourless
- Density: 1.03 g/cm³
- Vapour pressure: 4.2 kPa
- Boiling point: 140 °C
- Flash point: 79 °C
- Flammability point (Fd): 49 °C
- Water solubility: partially soluble
- LD50 (rat, oral): 4,300 mg/kg
Safety & compliance Copper Rescue is formulated with amino acid-based chelators, ensuring a favourable toxicological and environmental profile.
Full Safety Data Sheet available for download.
Recensioni
Ancora non ci sono recensioni.