The antimicrobial properties of copper surfaces have now been firmly established. Hospital trials have shown a reduction in bacterial counts, indicating that copper surfaces are a promising additional tool alongside other hygienic measures to curb the number and severity of hospital-acquired infections.
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The study demonstrated the antimicrobial properties of cast copper alloys with regard to E. coli O157, and consequently these alloys have the potential to aid in food safety. For example, the survival of E. coli O157 in high-copper alloy C87300 was significantly reduced, with complete kill of 107 cells achieved after 75 min without beef extract and in 90 min even with the beef juice.
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Copper was found to cause a significant (83%) reduction in the average MB found on the objects
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Copper alloys (greater than or equal to 58% copper), when incorporated into various hospital furnishings and fittings, reduce the surface microorganisms
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Copper alloy surfaces saw a 99.9% reduction in live bacteria in laboratory tests. In the clinical trials, an 83% reduction in bacteria was seen on the copper alloy components. Infection rates were found to be reduced by 58% in patient rooms with components made of copper.
Funding for the EPA regulatory testing was provided by both the International Copper Association Ltd. (ICA) and Copper Development Association Inc. (CDA).
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Demonstrates that the use of copper-containing alloys may limit the spread of multiple drug-resistant bacteria in hospitals
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Median numbers of microorganisms harboured by the copper-containing items were between 90% and 100% lower than their control equivalents
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During 6 months, surfaces were sampled every 6 weeks for a 4.5-day period, with multiple samplings per day. An overall 71% reduction in the bacterial load of the copper surfaces was observed compared to that of the control surfaces
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