A World of Copper

A World of Copper

Copper is ductile, corrosion-resistant, malleable, and eminently recyclable. The versatility of this beautiful metal makes it one of the world's most useful natural resources. Alloyed with other metals, it can acquire additional invaluable characteristics such as hardness, tensile strength and still greater resistance to corrosion.

Communications

Copper has long been the preferred material for both long and short-range communications, enjoying steady growth throughout the last 50 years.

Architecture

Copper metals have been used in architecture for thousands of years. Many very early examples still bear witness to copper's longstanding popularity.

Electricity & Energy

Weight for weight, outside of precious metals, copper is the best conductor of electricity and heat.  It is hardly surprising that about 60% of total copper use is for these purposes.

Plumbing & Heating

Copper tube is the standard plumbing material for potable water and heating systems in most European countries, and the preferred material of the professional plumber and heating engineer.

Rational Use of Energy

It is estimated that over 8% of the electricity consumed in standard European homes and businesses is lost due to the way the equipment has been designed and installed. Yet electricity is the most expensive energy available-about eight times the cost of coal and three times the cost of gas-all the more reason to use it efficiently and to engage in energy consumption control programs.

Renewable Energy

Whether they depend on solar, wind, geothermal, fuel cell or other technologies, alternative energy sources will be crucial in meeting the increasing demand for power that will accompany continuing world industrialisation.

Transport

Copper is used extensively in automobiles, trains and trucks, primarily in electrical components, followed by heat transfer devices such as radiators and oil coolers, and bronze sleeve bearings. In addition, countless fittings, fasteners, and screws are made from brass.

The Euro

Copper’s intrinsic properties have made it the material of choice for the fabrication of coins throughout the ages. Naturally antibacterial, copper coins are an ally for our health. Fully recyclable, they contribute greatly to the goals of sustainable development.

Did You Know?

It is estimated that about 80% of the copper humanity has ever produced is still in use. It will continue to be recycled over and over again without any effect on its properties.