COPPER CULTURE
Did you know this about copper?
• SOURCES: U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY, JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR ARTS (VOL. 9, NO. 450)
MKM’s headquarters are located in the town of Hettstedt, where, in 1199, two miners called Napian and Neuke came across a vast copper shale. Their discovery was the spark that ignited the success of German copper industry. According to mining engineer W. P. Jervis’ article in the Journal of the Society of Arts, published in July 1861, ”Napian discovered the Kupferschiefer by mere accident, while digging a cellar near the then insignificant village of Hättstädt, and having it assayed, the result proved so satisfactory that he gave the present name of Kupferberg to the spot.” In addition to their monetary value, the copper ore deposits of ”Kupferschiefer” have played a major role in the scientific study of ore genesis – and are thus worldfamous among geologists. As stated by the United States Geological Survey Mineral Resources Program, during 800 years of mining, more than 2.5 million metric tonnes of copper have been produced from the Kupferschiefer deposits in east– central Germany. Around one million metric tonnes of discovered copper remain in identified deposits, and mean undiscovered copper estimates for the area amount to about 20 million metric tonnes. •
• TEXT: TIINA PAANANEN • PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK. SOURCES: NATURE.COM, SOUTHAMPTON.AC.UK, AEM.ASM.ORG
Kupferschiefer – discovered by accident
The antibacterial qualities of copper can prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria in public spaces. A study conducted by the University of Southampton states that copper can prevent the contraction of MRSA hospital-acquired infections from frequently-touched surfaces. In a hospital environment, such surfaces include door handles, light switches, rails, tables, bed sides, lift buttons and reception areas. Copper exposure inactivates pathogens by altering their DNA, resulting in an irreversible elimination of the pathogen cell. Previous studies indicate that copper surfaces can also be used to prevent the spread of Corona viruses, which include respiratory infections such as SARS and MERS. Research shows that copper surface killed the viruses in less than two hours. The antibacterial attributes of copper were well known, even during the era of ancient Rome. Copper sulphate was used to disinfect wounds, while copper coins were placed into water for purifying purposes. Even the ancient Egyptians used copper pipes for water distribution. In addition to preventing hospitalacquired infections, copper also restricts the spread of Norovirus and Coli bacteria. Construction industries have used copper before – although not knowingly – to prevent diseases. Antibacterial copper is included in over 300 compounds, such as brass, bronze and copper-nickel. Antimicrobial copper alloy touch surfaces are the only material group to receive an approved health registration from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). •
May | 2017 UPCAST Review
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