Why copper mesh is a valid option for buildings and facades
Copper is one of the materials used to produce expanded metal. It is indeed an excellent solution both for the qualities of the material itself and for the aesthetic effect it guarantees to the design. Let’s analyse the numerous applications of a copper mesh for facades and interior design.
What is copper used for?
Copper is a chemical element with the symbol Cu and atomic number 29. It is a soft, ductile metal with excellent thermal and electrical conductivity. It is often found in minerals and ores and has been used by humans for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations. Copper is also an essential trace element for living organisms and plays a crucial role in biological processes.
Copper is commonly used in various industries for its properties, including:
- electrical;
- plumbing;
- construction;
- telecommunications
It is the qualities of the material that promote its use in various sectors.
- Conductivity. Copper is an excellent conductor for electricity and heat. It makes it ideal for electrical wiring, electronic components, and heat transfer systems.
- Ductility. It can be easily drawn into wires or hammered into thin sheets without breaking.
- Corrosion resistance. Copper naturally forms a protective oxide layer on its surface, which makes it highly resistant to corrosion. This property ensures the longevity of copper-based products.
- Malleability. Copper is also highly malleable. It can be shaped and formed into various configurations without fracturing. This quality makes it suitable for architectural elements, decorative items, and intricate designs.
Copper has special properties that stop the growth of bacteria, viruses, and other harmful germs on its surface. This makes it really useful in places where cleanliness is super important, like hospitals and food factories. Also, copper wire mesh is used in lots of electrical stuff and for RFI shielding against electromagnetic waves.
Is copper good for building?
Copper can boast a long tradition in architecture and building construction in general. In Ancient Egypt, for example, the massive doors of the temples were clad with copper. From castles and cathedrals to houses and offices, it has remained a highly appreciated material from the past to the present day.
The success of copper in architecture can be linked to its corrosion resistance, durability, aesthetic appearance, and ductility.
It is therefore not surprising that today copper is one of the materials used to produce the expanded metal employed as a solution for building facades. An expanded metal mesh is designed to give shape, volume, and geometry to a construction. In the most innovative projects, it integrates with glass and concrete to give character to the building and make it recognizable, rather than just another anonymous element in its surroundings.
Copper adds additional qualities thanks to its shades of orange and brown. The oxidation that occurs over time and with exposure to atmospheric agents produces an outer patina that takes on green tones. Technological advancements allow for the artificial creation of this patina to meet specific architectural requirements, ensuring that copper continues to play an important role in the building sector.
Thanks to its thermal conductivity, copper is also well-suited to solar thermal facade systems.
Is copper cost effective?
Factors such as performance, maintenance, service life, and recycling recovery costs determine the cost-effectiveness of building components. Although copper initially costs more than some other architectural metals, it does not require replacement throughout the lifespan of a building.
Thanks to its durability, minimal maintenance needs, and potential salvage value, any extra expense for copper may prove insignificant. Long life, recyclability and thermal efficiency make copper a sustainable material.
