Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) are promising for developing new antimicrobial systems due to their enhanced antibacterial activity compared to elemental silver. The mechanism of action primarily involves the oxidative dissolution of Ag NPs, leading to the release of silver ions (Ag⁺). This process is influenced by various factors, including the presence of oxidizers like oxygen, the pH of the medium, and the presence of anions such as sulfides and chlorides, which can form insoluble precipitates and reduce the antimicrobial activity. The surface properties of Ag NPs, such as size, shape, and coating, also significantly impact their potency. Smaller NPs have higher surface areas and are more prone to dissolution, leading to increased Ag⁺ release. Additionally, the adsorption of Ag NPs on bacterial surfaces can enhance their effectiveness. The role of Ag⁺ ions is crucial, as they form quasi-covalent bonds with organic molecules like thiols and phosphates, disrupting cellular processes and causing bacterial death. However, the exact mode of action remains complex and influenced by various factors, including the presence of other antimicrobial agents and the physical properties of the system. The activity of Ag NPs can be controlled by tuning their size, shape, and coating, as well as by managing the environmental conditions and the presence of competing species. Understanding these factors is essential for optimizing the use of Ag NPs in various applications, including environmental and medical settings.Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) are promising for developing new antimicrobial systems due to their enhanced antibacterial activity compared to elemental silver. The mechanism of action primarily involves the oxidative dissolution of Ag NPs, leading to the release of silver ions (Ag⁺). This process is influenced by various factors, including the presence of oxidizers like oxygen, the pH of the medium, and the presence of anions such as sulfides and chlorides, which can form insoluble precipitates and reduce the antimicrobial activity. The surface properties of Ag NPs, such as size, shape, and coating, also significantly impact their potency. Smaller NPs have higher surface areas and are more prone to dissolution, leading to increased Ag⁺ release. Additionally, the adsorption of Ag NPs on bacterial surfaces can enhance their effectiveness. The role of Ag⁺ ions is crucial, as they form quasi-covalent bonds with organic molecules like thiols and phosphates, disrupting cellular processes and causing bacterial death. However, the exact mode of action remains complex and influenced by various factors, including the presence of other antimicrobial agents and the physical properties of the system. The activity of Ag NPs can be controlled by tuning their size, shape, and coating, as well as by managing the environmental conditions and the presence of competing species. Understanding these factors is essential for optimizing the use of Ag NPs in various applications, including environmental and medical settings.