The effectiveness of antimicrobial additives lies in their mechanisms of action. For instance, silver ions disrupt the cellular respiration of bacteria, leading to cell death, while copper can inhibit enzymatic processes necessary for microbial growth. Additionally, some organic additives work by disrupting the microbial cell membrane, effectively killing or inhibiting the growth of pathogens. The choice of additive often depends on the specific application and the type of microorganisms being targeted.