Copper has been used for thousands of years and is still a key material in the latest technologies, underpinning the digital and renewable energy revolutions. Copper has more diverse uses than you think. Here are just some of the places you're likely to encounter copper in your daily life.

Electronics

Copper is a safe and excellent conductor of electricity and extremely ductile, meaning it can be hammered and stretched into wires without breaking. Copper is widespread in household electronics and communications, from computers and appliances to lights and phone cables.

Heating, cooling and cooking

Copper is also an excellent conductor of heat, so it's commonly found in air conditioners and other heating and cooling systems, gas boilers and car radiators, as well as cooking pots.

Plumbing

Antimicrobial and resistant to rust, copper is an ideal and affordable choice for water pipes, and has been used for this very purpose since as far back as Ancient Egypt.

Vehicles

High electrical and thermal conductivity make copper a vital component for vehicle systems and parts. Its use in batteries and wiring for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles is a key factor in the growing demand and price of the red metal.

Handles and railings

Door knobs, handles and metal railings made of brass or bronze incorporate copper alongside other metals such as zinc or tin. This is partly due to its antimicrobial properties, which is seeing copper become more widely used for many surfaces in medical settings to help prevent the spread of bacteria and infections.

Tools

Many household and professional tools including pliers, screwdrivers and spanners are made of beryllium copper, a non-magnetic and non-sparking alloy.

Musical instruments

Many musical instruments are made using copper alloys for their excellent acoustic qualities – from self-evident brass instruments to cymbals and bells.

Coins

Coins are primarily made from copper alloys. $1 and $2 coins are 92 per cent copper, while silver 5, 10, 20 and 50 cent coins are made of 75 per cent copper and 25 per cent nickel.

Jewellery and fastenings

Easily moulded, copper is frequently combined with gold or silver to offer more design flexibility and rust resistance for all types of jewellery, buckles and buttons.

Roofing and gutters

Copper roofs and gutters are less common today, due to their higher cost compared to galvanised steel and other metals, but they make an attractive, long-lasting and low-maintenance alternative, particularly for their resistance to rust.

Copper Mining and Exploration in Australia

Locksley Resources Limited (ASX:LKY)

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