Cu2O and CuCl2·3Cu(OH)2 corrosion products on copper rich dental amalgams

In addition to Sn-rich corrosion products found in conventional amalgams, Cu-rich amalgams also form Cu-containing corrosion products. The nature of these Cu-rich products was investigated by immersion of samples of 13 Cu-rich amalgam systems in Ringer's solution for prolonged periods. SEM/EDS and x-ray diffraction studies were used to identify the compounds formed and their morphology. Two products were identified: Cu2O, a red product, and CuCl2 . 3Cu(OH)2, a green product.