Using Red Metals to combat COVID-19
After rigorous testing and evaluation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency registered copper alloys as antimicrobial public health materials. Frequently touched surfaces made from uncoated EPA-registered copper alloy materials continuously kill bacteria* within two hours of contact when cleaned regularly.
If we take a moment to ponder how the foreseeable future will look, it seems a greater emphasis will be placed on being safe and responsible in our interaction with others. Masks, increased sanitizing frequency, contact tracing, and remote working have become a part of daily life. People will carry the imprint of the events of 2020 well after life normalizes.
The desire for cleanliness and sanitary environments will be something we take with us in our everyday actions. We will want our families to be safe at home as well as through their daily interactions. It will be expected for reputable businesses to take steps to keep employees and customers protected to the best of their abilities.
What steps will you take to keep your family, clients, and team safe during these ever-changing times?
At E. Kraemer — Fine Metal & Woodwork, we are skilled at creating show-stopping, architectural metal furnishings, and fixtures for the home and business. What’s not to love about beautiful, durable, and self-sanitizing surface solutions?
Furthermore, brass has antibacterial properties. Brass furniture can help prevent viruses and bacteria from spreading. This means that furniture made out of this metal are safer and healthier compared to pieces made of other materials.
A brief history of red metals
Red metals have long been hailed as something of a miracle material. It was used for everything from healing battle wounds in ancient times to purifying drinking water. Until stainless steel became popular in the 1930s, copper was typically used for hospital surfaces and fixtures.
Pros:
Copper has been registered with the EPA for its anti-microbial ability to destroy harmful bacteria and viruses.
Copper is a strong material which can hold up for centuries and can be re-polished or recycled with no loss of quality.
Copper makes for a stunning and unique surface, serving as a feature point for your home or business.
While many surfaces require chemicals in order to disinfect, copper merely requires a little soap, warm water, and a soft cloth from time to time.
Copper alloys share the antimicrobial properties of copper.
Cons:
To maintain the full effect of copper as a self-sanitizing surface, it needs to be left as a ‘live finish,’ meaning it will patina over time. Many people love the aesthetic of this patina, but if you do not, some finish maintenance may be required.
The initial cost of copper can be a little higher than other surface materials, but when fabricated correctly, this investment can last a lifetime.
Copper surfaces may acquire dings and scratches, as with any other surface.
There are many poor examples of copper clad surfaces that utilize a thickness of material that is not suitable for the application. This sometimes gives the impression it does not hold up well.