Copper surfaces kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses within two hours.

Copper’s antimicrobial power is driven by the oligodynamic effect, where metal ions create a toxic environment for microorganisms. When a bacterium lands on a copper surface, the metal releases ions that punch holes in the bacterial cell membrane. This causes the cell to lose vital nutrients and water, leading to rapid cell death.Beyond physical damage, copper ions seek out and destroy the DNA and RNA within the pathogen. This process is so thorough that it prevents the microbes from developing resistance, making copper a permanent solution against superbugs like MRSA. In contrast, viruses and bacteria can survive on stainless steel or plastic for four to five days.A landmark 2011 study funded by the U.S. Department of Defense tested copper surfaces in three hospitals, including the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. The researchers found that rooms with copper-surfaced objects had 83% fewer bacteria than traditional rooms. Most importantly, the study recorded a 58% reduction in healthcare-acquired infections among patients.The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officially registered copper as the first solid antimicrobial material in 2008. Since then, institutions worldwide have begun replacing high-touch surfaces like door handles and faucets with copper alloys. This simple material change serves as a continuous, passive defense system that works 24/7 without human intervention.