The cataltic properties of copper have the advantage above other packing materials in that it removes the sulfides from the vapor to eliminate foul-smelling sulfides (i.e. hydrogen sulfide).

Subsequently, Copper mesh packing  (lead-free) has proven to be a superior packing material for reflux column stills.

Its surface area to volume ratio is more than 100 times that of some ceramic rings and as a consequence, you need 100 times less volume in your reflux column when using copper mesh than when using ceramic (Raschig) rings.