MgCu<sub>2</sub> is a binary intermetallic compound of magnesium (Mg) and copper (Cu) adopting cubic crystal structure, more specifically the C15 Laves phase. The space group of MgCu<sub>2</sub> is Fdm with lattice parameter a = 7.04 ÃÂ .
MgCu<sub>2</sub> can be prepared by hydrogenation of Mg<sub>2</sub>Cu or the reaction of magnesium hydride and metallic copper at elevated temperature and pressure:
MgCu<sub>2</sub> can also be prepared by reacting of stoichiometric amounts of metals at about 380 ðC in the presence of excess copper.
MgCu<sub>2</sub> can react with boron or its oxide to form magnesium borides. It can also react with magnesium hydride to produce orthorhombic Mg<sub>2</sub>Cu, liberating hydrogen.