The toxic salts of heavy metals react with bacterial enzymes to form complexes with protein.
The free silver ion produces caustic, astringent and antibacterial effect. Silver nitrate molded on the end of an application stick is occasionally used at UAF to cauterize small wounds, usually nails of small animals after being cut short to obtain a blood sample.
Colloidal silver preparations are non-irritating, nonastingent, noncorrosive and bacteriostatic. Have been used as mild antispetics on mucous membranes.
Silver sulfadiazine is a combination of two antibacterial agents, the heavy metal silver and the antimicrobial compound sulfadiazine. Whether this products effectiveness is through the action of one of these agents or a syngistci effect of the twoo is unclear. Although the precise mechanism of action is yet to be determined, this product is available in a few formulations.
Copper sulfate has astringent, germicidal and fungicidal properties. We use copper sulfate on hoof cracks in our large ungulates.
The antibacterial action of mercurial compounds has been controversial ever since Koch introduced the use of mercuric bichloride in 1881. Antibacterial actions appear to be reversible and there is little sporicidal activity.
There are better and safer products available for disinfection and antisepsis!