Copper in our daily lives

Copper plays a vital part in shaping our lives. It is hidden away in everyday objects around our homes, including phones, water pipes, locks and electrical wiring.

People have been using copper since 9000 BC. One of the reasons copper is so important is that it can be made into alloys. That means it can be combined with other metals to make new alloys, like brass and bronze. These are harder, stronger and more corrosion resistant than pure copper.

Copper is an excellent conductor of electricity and heat; it is strong, ductile and easily joined by soldering or a high temperature process called brazing.  It is hygienic, easy to alloy and resists corrosion.

Copper and its alloys are available in many shapes and sizes, for example wire (for electrical applications), tube (for plumbing and heating) and sheet (for roofing).