Ions, not
particles, make silver toxic to bacteria
Rice
University researchers report too small a dose may enhance microbes’ immunity
HOUSTON –
(July 11, 2012) – Rice University researchers have settled a long-standing
controversy over the mechanism by which silver nanoparticles, the most widely
used nanomaterial in the world, kill bacteria.
Their work comes
with a Nietzsche-esque warning: Use enough. If you don’t kill them, you make
them stronger.
Scientists
have long known that silver ions, which flow from nanoparticles when oxidized,
are deadly to bacteria. Silver nanoparticles are used just about everywhere,
including in cosmetics, socks, food containers, detergents, sprays and a wide
range of other products to stop the spread of germs.
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