Abstract: The Ag+ release process of three silver-based antimicrobial agents were studied in water. The glass supported agent (IONPURE) showed the greatest Ag+ release rate. When loaded in PE-LD, the sterilization rate of IONPURE was faster than other agents. However, the antimicrobial capabilities of IONPURE decreased more quickly in presence of water.

Key words: Glass carrier silver-based antimicrobial agent, Silver-zirconium phosphate antimicrobial, Ag+ release, Antimicrobial longevity