Copper in ArchitectureFact 17 of 17
Biosphere 2 in the southern Arizona desert is a massive glass building as big as an airport hangar. Modeled after Earth, it was designed to be completely self-sustaining and capable of supporting human, animal and plant life. Copper tubing is used in the biosphere's extensive air handling and heat exchange systems because of its excellent heat transfer properties and reliability. Copper tubes filled with chilled water cool the air, while simultaneously absorbing the sun's radiant heat inside the dome. Copper is also used in the electrical wiring, as well as the motors and fans needed to distribute the cooler air.
