Troops stationed at Fort Jackson in Columbia,
S.C., will be among the first to see if treated copper in an HVAC system can
prevent mold and bacteria.
The U.S. Department of Defense
has installed anti-microbial-coated copper components into the HVAC systems at
Fort Jackson’s barracks to see if the treated copper can reduce or eliminate
the odors that result from the fungus that typically grows on wet, moist aluminum
HVAC equipment.
Instead of aluminum, the barracks’ HVAC
systems include copper cooling coils, heat-exchanger fins and drip pans made by
Luvata.
The University of Southern Carolina is leading the
study. Charles Feigley, Ph.D., a professor of environmental health sciences
there, said the energy efficiency of newer structures contributes to the
problem.
“Improvements in building and construction methods
have generally led to increased energy efficiency, but at the same time, these
tighter building ‘envelopes’ tend to trap bacteria, leading to odors,” Feigley
said. “The results of this real-world trial should encourage advancements in the
design of HVAC systems.”
The Copper Development Association
is seeking Environmental Protection Agency approval of copper alloys for use in
protecting HVAC components.
Research examines copper's germ-fighting potential
November 1, 2009
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