Copper than less-developed countries (30–40 kg per capita). The process of recycling copper is roughly the same as is used to extract copper but requires fewer steps. High-purity scrap copper is melted in a furnace and then reduced and cast into billets and ingots; lower-purity scrap is refined by electroplating in a bath of sulfuric acid. Numerous copper alloys have been formulated, many with important uses. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. Bronze usually refers to copper-tin alloys, but can refer to any alloy of copper such as aluminium bronze. Copper is one of the most important constituents of
Antimicrobial copper-alloy touch surfaces products in accordance with the U.S. E.P.A registrations. Products offered by the approved companies include sinks, computer keyboards, faucets, IV poles, tables, stretcher rails, railings, hampers, decorative and architectural hardware (levers, grips, knobs, pulls, towel bars, grab bars, kick plates, bath accessories, outlet covers, light switch covers), laboratory incubators, cabinet hardware, decorative tile, and free weights. The U.S. E.P.A. oversees a stewardship plan to promote the responsible use of Antimicrobial Copper. Further information about the making accurate claims about Antimicrobial Copper is also available. Many antimicrobial copper alloy products have been approved for registration in healthcare facilities, public and commercial