Copper combates zebra mussels

According to a recent report in Canadian Copper, a study is under way at the University of Toronto to evaluate the effectiveness of using copper and copper alloys to prevent the adhesion of zebra mussels to underwater intake and outlet pipes. The joint study involves the Canadian Copper & Brass Development Association plus two other industry groups working in co-operation with the University of Toronto’s Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Zebra mussels are native to Europe, but were accidentally introduced to the Great Lakes in the mid-1980s.

In the past few years, it has become clear that the mussels can cause extensive damage by clogging water intake pipes used by municipalities, industries and electrical utilities. They are also infesting pleasure and commercial boats, where they may clog the cooling system and cause engine failure. Other problems are appearing as the mussels spread through the Great Lakes at an alarming rate.

But, if the U. of T. study is successful, it would mean that water intake pipes and other equipment made of copper-based material would not become clogged with the mussels.

The corrosion and biofouling resistance of copper-based materials have been well known for centuries. For example, copper-nickel sheathing has been successfully used for ships’ hulls to prevent the attachment of barnacles and other marine creatures.