The present invention comprises the use of silver-containing nanomaterials
that have reduced interaction with light and still mitigate the growth of
microorganisms, including fungi. The nanolayer is sufficiently thin and
can be non-continuous, so that it has nominal optical effects on the
material it is formed on. Silver is combined with other elements to
minimize its diffusion and growth into larger sized grains that then
would have increased effects on optical properties. Preferably, the
additional elements also have mitigation properties for microorganisms,
but are not harmful to larger organisms, including humans. Embodiments of
the present invention can be used on a wide range of substrates, used in
applications such as food processing, food packaging, medical instruments
and devices, surgical and health facility surfaces, and other surfaces
where it is desirable to mitigate or control the growth of
microorganisms.