27 Copper’s resilient appeal
The Copper Sustainability Partnership (CuSP) explores the benefits of copper in modern day infrastructure – from our homes to hospitals and transportation systems – and how copper is helping to create a more sustainable future through careful and considered design
fittings such as roofs, and then indoor applications such as piping when indoor plumbing was introduced.
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Copper is well known for its energy efficiency, durability, versatility and sustainability, making it suitable for windows and door frames, piping, cladding and roofing panels, and structural features in buildings. But what are the benefits of the material in our buildings?
Versatility
Copper is a strong and durable metal that can be used for various projects, and benefits from malleable qualities meaning that it can be stretched into different shapes depending on design requirements. From specific round shapes to being arranged into wires, the atoms in copper prevent the material from becoming damaged, making the material a resistant and adaptable building material.
This flexibility allows copper to adapt to complex and intricate designs, fitting into tight spaces without losing its qualities. Copper’s malleability also makes it an ideal choice for creating custom components and detailed architectural features, further enhancing its value in both construction and design applications.
Environment Like stainless steel, galvanised steel and aluminium, copper is extremely corrosion resistant. It is a highly sought-after material for rural, marine and industrial environments as it retains its high quality due to a naturally occurring film that forms on the surface, protecting the material from any natural factors.
Such strong properties make copper the perfect fit for both indoor and outdoor environments, from copper piping to
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structural features including handrails, columns, beams, and staircases. Its versatility makes it ideal for use in harsh environments where material integrity is critical, proving to be reliable over long periods of time – unlike plastic pipes, which degrade quickly or dissolve when in contact with certain solvents.
Protects
A significant benefit of copper is its antimicrobial properties, making it a highly suitable material for areas that require protection against bacteria, viruses and fungi. When microbes land on its surface, antimicrobial copper releases oxidising atoms, ultimately killing the microbe and preventing any bacteria from spreading further, reducing any infection.
The natural resistance copper has against bacteria helps immensely with highly
WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK Copper’s unique
combination of strength and flexibility makes it an essential material for design
opper is a vital material that has been used in architecture for centuries, originally for exterior
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