Copper as an antibacterial material in different facilities

Findings:

The efficiency of copper as an antimicrobial material has been noted in laboratory studies and in the hospital environment. The present study further shows that copper exerted an antibacterial effect in different facilities, i.e. in a hospital, a kindergarten, an office building and in a retirement home for the elderly. The study suggests that copper has potential use as an antibacterial material and therefore might serve as a means to lower the incidence of transmission of infectious agents from inanimate surfaces in different facilities, with everyday functions.

Society for Applied Microbiology

From Laboratory Research to a Clinical Trial: Copper Alloy Surfaces Kill Bacteria and Reduce Hospital-Acquired Infections

Findings:

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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