Cu and Cu‐30Ni Alloy as Anti‐Viral Materials for High‐Touch Surfaces: Efficacy in a Simulated Public Environment with Frequent Cleaning Practices

Abstract This paper assesses whether copper surfaces retain their anti‐viral efficacy, or whether this property is altered by exposure to the cleaning solutions of glutaraldehyde or NaClO, when used in high‐touch surfaces that are regularly touched by many people. The results obtained show that copper has a virus titer of 50% after 30 and 60 min of exposure, but for Cu‐30Ni, 50% is not reached until 70 and 80 min in artificial sweat after cleaning. Cu‐30Ni has more effective resistance to tarnishing. Copper and nickel ions are released from Cu and Cu‐30Ni samples in NaClO and glutaraldehyde solutions. A brief exposure to disinfectant solutions causes corrosion product formation on both Cu and Cu‐30Ni surfaces, primarily composed of Cu ₂ O. In contrast, CuO and Cu(OH) ₂ are the primary compounds that contribute to creating a thicker film formed as exposure time is increased. Phases containing chlorine are present in the corrosion product composition. This research introduces a new understanding of how copper and Cu‐30Ni alloys respond to disinfectant solutions and humid air. The Cu‐30Ni alloy offers superior corrosion resistance, retaining a shiny appearance, but simultaneously reflects an increased viral inactivation time due to a more stable oxide layer compared to pure copper.