Superior electrical and thermal conductivity
Copper’s superior electrical and thermal conductivity can greatly increase energy efficiency and reduce cost. Due to copper’s inherently high electrical conductivity, nearly 60% of copper produced is used in electrical applications. It has high thermal conductivity which is good for a variety of heating, cooling and heat transferring equipment. Copper is a vital energy-efficient and reliable metal used in every aspect of electricity generation and transmission. It is also widely used in various applications such as high voltage transmission, microelectronics, personal computers and household appliances.
Malleability
Copper can be formed and stretched into complex and intricate shapes without breaking. This makes it possible to create spires, steeples, musical instruments, bowls, bed frames, tubes, and a number of other functional and attractive products. Narrow wires used to transmit currents in cars, computers, televisions, lighting and various other electronics are enabled by copper’s malleability.
Resistance to corrosion, impermeability, and non-inflammability
Copper’s resistance to corrosion, impermeability, and non-inflammability guarantees its durability and reliability as well as its cost efficiency over long periods of time. When indoors, copper and its alloys will very slowly darken in color but will not rust. This darkening does not diminish its capacity to function. This is an important quality for materials used in water pipes, gas pipes, taps, and electrical wires.
Aesthetics
Copper has always fascinated people with its beauty and elegance. While preserving traditional aesthetics, it also serves to provide new and appealing architectural and design solutions. The pleasing appearance of copper and its alloys adds a refined beauty, quality, and prestige to all of its applications. It is no surprise that copper is widely used in decorative and architectural designs.
Antimicrobial nature
Copper’s antimicrobial nature brings health benefits to everyone. As a result, hospitals are choosing to utilize copper in their equipment and facilities. Scientific research has proven copper’s antimicrobial benefits which drive its use in hospitals, household heating & air conditioning units, and public transportation. Due to its chemical makeup, copper limits the spread of bacteria and cross-contamination. Antimicrobial copper is the only solid metal registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as an antimicrobial health product for public use.
Recyclability
Copper can be completely recycled without sacrificing performance or quality. This characteristic can help satisfy the annual demand for copper, save valuable natural resources and energy, and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. In fact, copper recycling, or secondary production, is 85 percent more energy efficient than primary copper production. Moreover, two thirds of all copper mined since 1900 is still in use today, typically in electrical applications. In 2010, 35 percent of the copper used around the globe was recycled copper. However, increasing demand for copper requires even more copper be available use. This demand is derived from factors such as population growth, product innovation and economic development. These, coupled with the fact that most copper products remain in service for many years requires a combination of primary production (copper mining) and secondary production (copper recycling).