
Copper is a chemical element with symbol Cu. It is a soft, malleable and ductile metal with very high thermal and electrical conductivity. A freshly exposed surface of pure copper has a reddish-orange colour. Copper oxidizes in moisture and forms a green verdigris (or patina). Copper is widely used by the Food Machinery Manufacturers.
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. It is easily formed, acid resistant and does not oxidize when exposed to open air. Its colour depends on the copper content.
Bronze is the alloy of copper and stannum (tin). Easily malleable, acid resistant. Used for making decorations, statues, spare parts. Forms patina on its surface.
Nickel-silver (alpacca) is the alloy of copper and nickel. It has silvery metal colour and is acid resistant. It is the material of cutlery and silverware.
Uses:
- Electronics and related devices
- Electric motors
- Alloying material (eg. yellow brass, bronze)
- Insecticides (CuSO4)
For the types of copper we collect see; „ Scrap metal categories „