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| | Uses for Copper
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| | Copper combines more useful properties than any other metal and has more applications than you could ever imagine. Here are some of the most common ways that copper permeates our daily lives.
| USE |
DESCRIPTION |
| Electricity and communication |
As copper is ductile and a great conductor, its main use is in electric generators, household/car electrical wiring, and the wires in appliances, computers, lights, motors, telephone cables, radios and TV sets. |
| Coins |
The alloy 'cupronickel', a mixture of 75% copper and 25% nickel, is used for making 'silver' coins such as our 5, 10, 20 and 50 cent pieces. Our $1 and $2 coins are 92% copper, mixed with aluminum and nickel. |
| Pipes |
As copper does not rust easily, and can be easily joined, it is useful for making water pipes (and hydraulic systems). The use of copper in water pipes dates back to the Romans and ancient Egyptians. |
| Heat conducting |
Copper's ability to conduct heat means it is used for car radiators, air conditioners, home heating systems, and boilers to produce steam. It is also ideal for the base of cooking pots. |
| Fungicides and insecticides |
Copper sulphate is used to kill algal blooms in water reservoirs, to protect timber, to stop plant roots from blocking rains and sewerage systems, and to kill insects. |
| Fertilizers |
Copper production was boosted in the 1950s and 1960s by the need for copper-based fertilizers to aid crop growth in previously unproductive land. |
| Bronze |
Bronze (90% copper, 10% tin) is used for statues, and bearings in car engines and heavy machinery. |
| Brass |
Brass (70% copper, 30% zinc) is particularly rust-resistant and so is used to make the hulls of sailing boats and other marine hardware. Many musical instruments are made from brass. Also decorative pieces, from light fittings to taps, and instruments for astronomy, surveying, navigation and other scientific purposes. |
Source: Minerals Council of Australia
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