Timeline of Copper Research
Research into the biocidal properties of copper has seen a number of key milestones over the past century. Here are a few highlights.
Copper Research Timeline
Click on each item to be taken directly to the publication.
EOSCU Registered for EPA Public Health Claims
EOSCU becomes first solid surface to become EPA registered for public health claims
Copper Alloys Registered for EPA Public Health Claims
US EPA registers copper alloys as antibacterial sanitizing surfaces
Mechanisms of biocidal activity
Advances in microscopy and other assaying technologies allows researchers to pinpoint the biological process that allow copper to disrupt bacterial cell walls and metabolism and explain the role of free radicals in biocidal activity
Anti-pathogen activity
Research into how copper targets specific pathogens, leading to improved treatments
Copper used by body to fight infections
Investigations into elevated levels of copper in the blood of patients fighting a variety of infections lead researchers to conclude that the body employs copper as a means of fighting pathogens.
Germ theory of disease
Once scientists revealed the biological origin of infection via bacteria, viruses, and fungi, research into copper focused on treatments for disease, but investigations into the mechanisms behind biocidal efficacy begin in full force.
Dawn of modern medicine
The 1800s saw the rise of what would become modern medicine, thanks to the Enlightenment and the development of the scientific method. Early researchers saw connections between exposure to copper and resistance to infection, pushing investigations into why copper helps keep water potable on long sea voyages. Early experiments led to discoveries of copper formulations to help with chronic dysentery and cholera.
Ancient civilizations
Prehistoric use
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