Unique properties of copper

Copper and its alloys have several unique properties which makes them interesting for modern technology. These are the most important properties:

High conductivity, both electric and thermal. Only silver is better.

High resistance to corrosion. Even in difficult environments copper usually has excellent properties.

Good formability. The formability is good in hot as well as cold condition. The machinability of some alloys is the best among all metallic materials. 

Good joining properties. The materials are easy to weld and solder. 

Colour, beauty. The green patina of the aging copper-plates, the red colour of the fresh copper, the yellow or gold-yellow colour of brass are all examples of the natural colours of copper.

Mechanical strength. It is low in non-alloyed copper, but it can be considerable in alloys.

High level of recycling. Copper has a long history of recycling due to its high srap-metal value.

Copper is used both pure and as the base metal in a large number of alloys, when certain properties are wanted.