Pure copper

Researchers test copper's germ-fighting effectiveness

Copper, the same metal that coats the lowly penny, was once used by ancient Greeks to purify drinking water.

Now University of South Carolina researchers are conducting experiments to see if copper components can control disease-causing bacteria in heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. The dark, damp interior of such systems makes them ideal breeding grounds for germs—and a common cause of so-called sick buildings.

“Condensing coils and drip pans in HVAC systems can harbor bacteria, viruses, and molds,” said Gene Feigley, an environmental health sciences professor. “A lot of research already points to the ability of copper and copper alloys to eradicate these pathogens on contact. We want to determine if adding copper components to air handling equipment will result in a more germ-free indoor air environment.”

In identical wings of an Army barracks at Fort Jackson, University researchers are testing HVAC systems clad with internal copper components and with traditional aluminum components. They will pretest the indoor air quality before installing the new systems; then test the barracks four or five months later to see which side has better air quality.

“If the copper components are effective, this could become part of the green building movement, especially in high-density housing,” said Liv Haselbach, a civil and environmental engineering professor who is participating in the research.