Copper is an incredibly versatile and endlessly recyclable metal. Let’s take a look at some of the most fascinating and fun facts about copper.
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1. As symbol of freedom
A gift of friendship from the people of France to the USA, recognised across the entire world as a symbol of both freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886, by President Grover Cleveland. The statue itself was constructed from 179,000 pounds of copper. Designated as National Monument in 1924, the statue has been cared for by employees of the National Park Service for almost 100 years.
2. Your own home has loads of copper
An average home will contain around 400 pounds of copper (or 181.4 Kg, if you’re that way inclined). This copper will be found within your electrical wiring, home appliances and within the all-important lengths of copper pipe which make up your home plumbing system. The average car will also contain around 50 pounds of copper.
If your pipework is in need of some attention, contacting specialists such as Watkins and Powis can help you rectify almost any issue you may encounter.
3. Not as pure as you thought!
Even gold rated as 24 karat will contain some amount of copper. This is due to the fact that gold on its own is so soft that it can be moulded by hand. The added copper helps to ensure that the gold maintains its shape and lasts forever.
4. The choice of the professionals
Copper is the material of choice for professional chefs around the world when selecting their pots and pans. The reasons behind this choice include the fact that copper cookware ensures that heat is delivered in a uniform manner without any heat spots.
5. A natural antibacterial surface
Copper is an excellent material to create touchpoints, such as doorknobs, handrails or finger plates. This is because copper has natural antibacterial properties. Making parts which are touched by all and sundry out of copper helps to prevent the unwanted spread of bacteria.
6. A very ecologically friendly material
Around 80% of the copper ever produced is still in use today, thanks to the fact that copper is 100% recyclable. Copper is able to be recycled without changing any of its properties. Additionally, copper often retains around 95% of its original value.
