The chemistry of monovalent copper in aqueous solutions

Copper complexes are catalysts of a variety of biological and industrial processes, especially redox processes. Cu(I) complexes are key intermediates in most of these processes. This review discusses ligand properties required for the stabilization of Cu(I) in aqueous solutions, obtaining copper complexes with desired redox potentials, obtaining Cu(I) complexes that are kinetically stabile and have desired chemical reactivity. The factors affecting the effects of ligands on the mechanisms of electron transfer reactions involving Cu(I) complexes are discussed. The role of copper complexes in processes leading to the formation of radicals and the mechanisms of reaction of copper complexes with radicals is analyzed.