Recent crystallographic investigations have proven Cu3P to be copper deficient, which means that the sum formula of this compound is more accurately expressed as Cu3−xP.

Copper phosphide can be produced in a reverberatory furnace or in a crucible, e.g. by a reaction of red phosphorus with a copper-rich material.

It can also be prepared photochemically, by irradiating cupric hypophosphite with ultraviolet radiation.

[6] When subjected to ultraviolet light, copper phosphide shows fluorescence.

Formation of protective layer of copper phosphide is also used in cases of phosphorus ingestion, when gastric lavage with copper sulfate is employed as part of the cure.