A distinction has to be made between two different methods of operation:
1. Contact sterilisation: the microorganisms die when they come into contact with the antimicrobial additive on the surface of the plastic object. The substance is not released; it remains firmly bonded to the surface.
2. Release sterilisation: the anti-microbial substance is released on the surface and migrates into the immediate surroundings as nanoparticles.
Since each kilogram of plastic contains a few hundred milligrams of silver at most, enhancement by the noble metal component remains inexpensive.