Copper, the primary material of brass, has played a significant role in human civilization for thousands of years. From ancient artifacts to modern industry, copper has driven various innovations and advancements.

With this newsletter, we will begin a series of fascinating stories about copper, so we hope you look forward to it! Now, shall we explore the history and diverse uses of copper together? 👀

Copper was first discovered around 8,800 BC in beads excavated from northern Iraq.

It is one of the first metals processed by humanity and played a significant role in the Bronze Age, being utilized for various purposes such as tools, weapons, and jewelry.

In the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Exodus, copper is referred to as "bronze." Julius Caesar also used copper coins with his face engraved on them as a means to promote himself to a wider audience.

Thus, copper transcended its role as a mere metal and became a symbol of governance and authority.

🔹 Copper Jewelry: The world's first copper jewelry was found at the Çatalhöyük site in Turkey (around 7200 BC) and the Çatalhöyük site (around 6500-5650 BC).

🔹 Spoons: Copper-tin alloy spoons are among the oldest types of cutlery and were also used as material for ancient cannons' barrels.

🔹 Bronze Awl: Small bronze awls have been found in skeletal remains excavated from dry regions, with the awl being held in the hands.

🔹 Copper-Tin Alloy: The color of copper-tin alloys changes depending on the tin ratio; when about 30% tin is mixed in, it transforms into a white alloy known as white bronze.

※ White Bronze: An alloy primarily composed of copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn), which does not contain silver (Ag) but is characterized by a bright white surface resembling silver.

In Korea, copper and its alloys have been used since ancient times.

According to historical records, the technology for producing copper alloys was documented as early as the early 8th century.

During the Goryeo Dynasty, it is said that copper and tin were alloyed in ratios of 75:25 or 80:20. Notably, the traditional method for producing brass (眞鍮) has continued to this day, which involves mixing 4 parts copper with 1 part tin.

Ancient copper artifacts, such as bells and mirrors, develop a green patina called verdigris over time.

This occurs because copper exposed to moisture forms basic copper carbonate. However, copper remains an essential metal in various industries due to its exceptional reddish luster and excellent workability.

Today, copper is used in various industries. With the second-highest electrical conductivity after silver, it is widely used in wires and semiconductors. Its excellent workability also makes it an essential material in fields such as automotive, construction, plumbing, and shipbuilding.

In particular, copper plays a crucial role in bearing manufacturing. Thanks to the wear resistance and corrosion resistance of copper alloys, it performs an indispensable function in industrial applications.

In this newsletter, we explored the history of copper.

In the next newsletter, we will delve deeper into the properties and uses of copper. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the SGO Research Institute at 📧info@sgoilless.co.kr.

The SGO newsletter will return next month with more valuable news for you! :)

SGO participated in KOPLAS 2025, held at KINTEX in Goyang from March 11 to 14, and had a meaningful time.

This exhibition was held under the theme "Circulation Towards the Future, Imagining Sustainability!" and featured over 450 companies from 25 countries showcasing the latest technologies in the plastic industry.

We showcased our flagship products, including high-strength brass oil-less bearings and plates, products from our in-house brand THEDVELON, and other product lines such as plastic bearings.

In particular, we attracted the interest of many visitors by presenting products applicable to key components of plastic injection molding machines, including high-strength brass(SP20·SP24·SP28), and the THEDVELON, 200S, and 200SP.

Additionally, we attended seminars and conferences on plastic circular economy, eco-friendly material development, recycling technology innovation, digitalization, and smart manufacturing held at KOPLAS 2025, allowing us to grasp the latest trends and share insights within the industry.

Based on the insights gained from this exhibition, we will strive to provide more advanced technologies and services.

We would like to thank everyone who visited the SGO booth and ask for your continued interest and support in the future.