The oxidation process is not completely unknown to us: iron is susceptible to oxidation (a layer of reddish-brown metal layers), aluminum – corrosion (white metal scales) and even food can turn brown if left out of the refrigerator for a long time. Similarly, copper also undergoes an oxidation process: with prolonged exposure to oxygen, it begins to turn green.
The original color of copper is often described as pink or peach with a pronounced metallic luster. When oxidized, the metal reacts with oxygen, which forms copper oxide on the surface of the object. This oxide has a pronounced green color. The coating is formed from above, known as copper patina, which actually forms a protective layer around the metal and prevents further oxidation.
But why does oxidation turn a metal into green?
In summary, during the oxidation process, copper elements lose electrons (usually called hydrogen) when they react with external elements, such as oxygen.
Many people really like the green oxidation that copper develops after exposure to oxygen over time; This can make the metal very attractive and gives the product a distinctive old-fashioned touch. However, since people are impatient, they began looking for other ways to cause this oxidation and mimicked a similar effect using chemicals.
By mixing a mixture of copper nitrate, ammonium chloride, calcium chloride and water, you can force your copper products to develop the green oxidation you want in a few minutes, not years. After mixing the solution, all you need to do is submerge the copper objects and let them dry.
Take sulfur solution in the liver
Another method of chemical oxidation is to take the sulfur solution in the liver, heat it and apply it to the surface of the copper element. You should use an aerosol can to do this and apply it to the metal while simultaneously heating it with a torch. Once you have finished spraying the surface, you can clean it with a damp cloth. Then heat the surface with a torch and apply weak ferric nitrate on it. However, instead of the green oxidation described above, this process will create a more brown or red color.