Vendors of marine battery wire are already well-familiar with the necessary certifications, as well as maintenance considerations and installation processes. However, sailors and vendors alike may not be aware why it is so important that such wire be made of specifically copper, and specifically copper treated in a certain way. In truth, few materials could be suitable for marine application other than copper, but copper alone is not enough. Copper is in many ways the ‘default’ wiring of the modern world, and has been for a great deal of time. Copper’s conductivity and durability make it invaluable for wiring everything from homes to cars to, of course, boats and marine installations. However, there are other alternatives, and copper’s primary advantage is price. However, copper alone is not enough. The reason copper on its own is insufficient is that copper corrodes. While it does not oxidize so dramatically as iron in damp conditions, especially in salt water, it is st...