What is an acceptable grounding rod material?

The use of copper as a grounding rod material is widely accepted due to its excellent conductivity, corrosion resistance, and durability. Copper's high conductivity ensures that any electrical surges, such as those caused by lightning strikes, can be efficiently redirected into the ground, minimizing the risk of damage to structures and electrical systems. Additionally, copper’s resistance to corrosion allows it to maintain effective grounding performance over time, particularly in various environmental conditions.

While other materials like aluminum have some conductivity and are sometimes used, they do not offer the same level of reliability and endurance as copper in grounding applications. Iron and lead are not typically used due to their susceptibility to corrosion and lack of adequate conductivity for effective grounding. Therefore, copper stands out as the most suitable material for grounding rods in lightning protection systems.