Abstract:

Copper ions, either alone or in copper complexes, have been used to disinfect liquids, solids and human tissue for centuries. Today copper is used as a water purifier, algaecide, fungicide, nematocide, molluscicide as well as an antibacterial and anti-fouling agent. Copper also displays potent anti-viral activity. This article reviews (i) the biocidal properties of copper; (ii) the possible mechanisms by which copper is toxic to microorganisms; and (iii) the systems by which many microorganisms resist high concentrations of heavy metals, with an emphasis on copper.

Keywords: bacteriostatic; gram-negative organisms; electroplated coatings; copper-impregnated fabrics; water purifier; antiviral; oxidizing agents; cell membrane; cell viability

Document Type: Review article

DOI: 10.2174/0929867054637617

Affiliations: 1: Hameyasdim 44, Kfar Gibton 76910, Israel.