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Copper Metal Ions Research Paper

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Copper is an essential mineral for all of life, but it also has the ability to kill. Copper and 354 of its alloys are the only metals officially registered with the US EPA as being antimicrobial and antibacterial. This killing capability is called an “oligodynamic effect” which was discovered in 1893. Copper metal ions have a toxic effect on living cells such as algae, molds, spores, fungi and microorganisms. It is far more poisonous to bacteria than other materials, such as stainless-steel, aluminum or plastic. Copper alloys, brass and bronze, have commonly been used as doorknobs to prevent the spread of infections (e.g. doorknobs in this former high school). Today, copper and its alloys are being used and tested on commonly

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