Copper: the antimicrobial metal with infinite potential

Copper is the oldest metal that is used by man. Its use dates back to prehistoric times and it played a pivotal role in the human technological advancement era of the ‘Bronze Age’. 

Copper and copper alloys are an extremely versatile engineering material. It has numerous beneficial physical properties such as strength, corrosion resistance, machinability, and ductility, as well as its antimicrobial agents that restrict the growth of microorganisms. 

As well as being a great metal for sheet metal fabrication, copper has antibacterial properties and might be the perfect material for your next project. Keep reading to find out more.

The Benefits of Copper:

• Copper surfaces contain biostatic properties to help prevent the transfer of disease and microbes, including superbugs such as SARS, Norovirus, and Coronaviruses.
• Following research, it was found COVID-19 was active on copper for 3 hours. As compared to other surfaces such as stainless steel, where it was found to last for over 24 hours.
  
• Copper contains antimicrobial agents that destroys microorganisms and limits their growth.
• In 2015, a Southampton University study investigated viruses and their ability to stay active on materials. The results highlighted that bacteria can remain infectious on common surface materials for several days; however, copper rapidly destroys them. Researchers concluded that due to the antimicrobial properties copper possesses, copper should be used in communal areas and at any mass gatherings to reduce the further spread of viruses and for the protection of public health.

Copper as an emerging metal in the 21st Century

In recent years, copper has seen an increase in use throughout appliances within homes. Copper portrays an image of warmth by showcasing its natural beauty, whether it’s polished, weathered, or worn. 

Not only does copper have a stylish and sophisticated look, copper is now being installed worldwide due to its antibiotic properties. 

In Chile’s Fantasilandia, a world-famous theme park, they have replaced their most frequently touched surfaces with copper as it is protecting the health of their visitors by helping to destroy germs to ensure they do not spread. 

In Europe, Hospitals are starting to install copper products to many frequently touched areas such as handrails and surfaces as it is proven to be effective. 

CSM and the use of copper products

Copper is renowned for its durability, machinability, and ability to be cast with high precision and tolerances and are extremely suitable for the creation of an array of products. 

The scientific research has changed the way we  operate and have decided to change numerous frequently touched areas to copper including door handles (As pictured below) 

In addition to the antimicrobial properties of copper, it also has the capability to create a diverse range of outstanding products. These include:

• Bar tops
• Counters
• Door Push Plates 
• Grab Handles
• Shelving 
• Light Switch Cover Plates 

Contact CSM

Do you have a project in mind, or do you want to find out more about how we use copper? Get in touch today to see how we can help.