High touch-traffic surfaces can contain millions of bacteria. Surfaces made of steel, in particular, can harbor germs for days. One setting where this becomes prevalent is the health care industry. As a result, many Americans get sick from quick visits to the doctor. With the COVID-19 pandemic, there has never been a better time to dive into the antimicrobial properties of copper. Keep reading to discover how copper can be a solution in the health care industry and in various other settings.
Why the Properties of Copper Are Important
Copper’s bacteria-killing capabilities are still being researched, but the evidence of its effectiveness is astounding. This is important because a visit to the hospital for a routine procedure or for blood work can be dangerous for people who are most vulnerable. In fact, according to an article published by Healthline, 1.7 million Americans contract a hospital-acquired virus (HAV) yearly. Of that number, 99,000 people die. This is a serious problem. One way in which HAVs can quickly travel is through high touch-traffic surfaces. This includes things such as handrails, door handles, and elevator buttons. These surfaces are typically made from stainless steel or other metals.
To stop the spread of HAVs, hospitals should move quickly to replace the bacteria-harboring metals in their buildings with antimicrobial copper. To learn how copper can be a solution to the current HAV crisis, keep reading below.
Cupric Ion
You’re probably wondering what makes copper an antimicrobial option. The answer comes down to its electron configuration. Of copper’s many properties, the presence of cupric ions is what gives copper the ability to kill bacteria cells immediately. When copper is used as a building material for hospital settings, surfaces that are touched regularly can see a significant decrease in the amount of germs they carry. Though the abilities of copper are still being researched, industries should begin experimenting with the use of this alloy for everyone’s safety and well-being.
How Weiland Diversified Can Help
Now that you know about the antimicrobial properties of copper, we’re happy to tell you that Weiland Diversified can help you find a solution to your fabrication needs. We stock copper alloys from CuVerro, a line of EPA-registered antimicrobial copper. We also offer this copper in the form of nickel silver, bronze, aluminum bronze, and AMS 4616 silicone iron bronze, just to name a few. AMS 4616 has a high enough copper content that it can be considered antimicrobial. As you can see, Weiland Diversified can help your company come up with a safe solution that will keep everyone safe and well.
For any questions regarding our antimicrobial alloys, give us a call. We know choosing the right material is crucial, and for that reason, our team of experts is ready to help you find the best solution.