Q Why is brass recommended for door fittings?
A It looks very good and the copper content in brass acts as an effective antimicrobial so, in any environment where health considerations are significant, the use of brass door furniture is strongly recommended. Copper alloys are the only solid materials to be registered by the US Environmental Protection Agency as antimicrobial.
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Q How do the antibacterial properties of copper and brass combat toxic E.coli 0157 bacteria?
A A recent study found that the highly toxic E.coli 0157:H7 strain of bacteria survive for much shorter periods of time on copper and brass surfaces than stainless steel. This has wide-ranging implications for reducing outbreaks from cross contamination of E.coli in the food processing industry.
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Q What significant antibacterial advantages does copper have over polybutylene plastic and stainless steel in cool potable 'soft' waters?
A Copper demonstrated an antibacterial advantage over polybutylene for every temperature range and water hardness condition studied. In all water conditions copper demonstrated either stronger or equivalent antibacterial properties compared to stainless steel.
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Q Is copper an essential element?
A Yes, copper is as vital as calcium, iron and zinc. An adult needs 0.9mg of copper every day to maintian good health. Nuts, seafood, wholegrain cereas and offal are good sources of copper and a balanced diet should provide adequate copper.
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Q Do some adults need more copper than others?
A Yes, more copper is needed during pregnancy (1 mg/day) and when breast feeding (1.3mg/day).
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Q What are the detrimental effects of insufficient copper?
A A lack of copper may cause anaemia and cardiovascular illnesses and has been linked with osteoporosis.
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Q I am digging a well with water pH=5.8. Is this safe to drink?
A Yes, the Drinking Water Regulations give a range of pH 5.5 to 9.5 for drinking water. However the ideal pH for water supplies is close to 8 if corrosion of the copper pipes is to be avoided. I suggest that you contact a water treatment company.
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