What is Copper(I) Oxide? Copper(I) Oxide is also called as cuprous oxide, an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Cu2O. It is covalent in nature. Copper(I) oxide crystallizes in a cubic structure. It is easily reduced by hydrogen when heated.

Used in antifouling paints for boat and ship bottoms; it is an effective control over corrosion. Used in paints for glass and porcelain. Used as a p-type semiconductor material that was used to make photocells for light meters and fabricate rectifiers. Used as a fungicide and seed dressing.

As a significant product of copper mining, copper(II) oxide is the starting point for the production of other copper salts. For example, many wood preservatives are produced from copper oxide. Cupric oxide is used as a pigment in ceramics to produce blue, red, and green, and sometimes gray, pink, or black glazes.