Silver

Silver (CAS 7440-22-4, EC 231-131-3, formula Ag) is a naturally occurring precious metal registered as food colorant E 174 and traded under designations including L 3, V 9, sr999, and Silber. It belongs to the Salts and Minerals category and is sourced in refined metallic form.

In water treatment and biotechnology, silver acts as an antimicrobial agent by releasing ions that disrupt bacterial cell membranes and inhibit enzyme function. In personal care formulations, it functions as a skin conditioner and preservative, while in printing and packaging it serves as a catalyst and conductive colorant in specialty inks and coatings.

Silver is available in grades conforming to Ph.Eur., FCC, and REACH requirements, with E 174 certification applicable for food and cosmetic use. It is supplied as wool, flake, or powder form depending on application requirements. HS code 71069110 applies for EU import and export classification.