Copper Sulfate Algicide: Principles, Application Methods, and Important Considerations

Sterilization and algae inhibition are crucial aspects of water environmental management, and copper sulfate is a commonly used algaecide known for its mechanism, application methods, and significance. This article provides a comprehensive discussion on the mechanism of copper sulfate and elucidates its correct application methods. Key points to be mindful of during usage are also emphasized.

Mechanism of Copper Sulfate

Copper sulfate functions as an efficient algaecide by affecting the microorganisms in the water, particularly bacteria and algae. The unique cellular structure of these microorganisms, featuring a protein shell and organelles without a cell nucleus, is vulnerable to copper ions.

For bacteria, copper ions act as heavy metal ions capable of denaturing proteins, disrupting the bacterial shell, and causing the leakage of internal substances, rendering the bacteria unable to survive. Copper sulfate achieves effective bactericidal results by inducing structural fractures in bacteria.

In the case of algae, copper sulfate serves as an effective algaecide. Copper ions, being robust heavy metal ions, bind to chloroplasts in algae at a faster rate than magnesium, sodium, and other ions. During this process, copper ions replace ions like Mg and Na, leading to chloroplast heavy metal poisoning, loss of photosynthetic function, and eventual death of the algae cells.

Overall, copper sulfate achieves efficient algae control by influencing the biological structure and physiological functions of microorganisms. This characteristic makes it a vital tool in maintaining water cleanliness and safety during water treatment.

copper sulfate algaecide

Application Methods of Copper Sulfate:

  1. Copper Sulfate Algicide Dosage:
    • Add 2-3 kilograms of copper sulfate per 1000 cubic meters of water to effectively inhibit and prevent the proliferation of bacteria and algae. It is generally recommended to administer this dosage 1-2 times a month, especially when small insects or moss are observed. Adjustments may be necessary in cases of increased human traffic or rainy weather.
  2. Timing of Copper Sulfate Algicide Addition:
    • Copper sulfate should be added immediately following other pool water treatment products and at least 2 hours before introducing other products. This ensures the algae-killing effect of copper sulfate and enhances water cleanliness. Adjustments to the copper sulfate dosage may be necessary based on specific circumstances, such as increased human traffic or rainy weather, to ensure clean and safe water quality.
  3. Introduction of Freshwater:
    • When introducing new water into the pool, double the amount of copper sulfate should be added. New water may contain various microorganisms, and doubling the copper sulfate quantity helps prevent bacterial reproduction in the pool, ensuring stable water quality.

When using copper sulfate for sterilization and algae removal, in order to ensure safety and effectiveness, you need to pay attention to the following matters


Do not mix with strong chlorine


Never mix copper sulfate and strong chlorine, as this can cause a dangerous chemical reaction and cause an explosion. These two chemicals can form unstable compounds when mixed, so be sure to store them separately.

Sewage suction treatment time:


It is recommended to carry out suction treatment within 12 hours after using copper sulfate. This is because adding copper sulfate will cause a large number of algae and bacteria in the water to die, thus causing pollution. Timely suction method can effectively remove microorganisms in the water and keep the water clean.

In conclusion, controlling the timing and dosage of copper sulfate application is crucial for maintaining the cleanliness and safety of swimming pool water. Proper and judicious use of copper sulfate, in combination with correct techniques, is effective in preventing water-related issues, creating a comfortable and safe swimming environment.

The use of copper sulfate as a disinfectant and algaecide is a vital element in water quality management. Understanding its principles and applying it appropriately are essential for maintaining healthy and clean water quality. In future production processes, close attention should be paid, and operations should be conducted according to appropriate guidelines to ensure the effective utilization of copper sulfate in water, providing a scientific basis for water pollution control and management.

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