Abstract: A method for the preparation of antimicrobially active materials is presented. The invention involves taking a base material such as allografts, xenografts, polymers, metals, and ceramics and combining it with an antimicrobially active agent, such as antibiotics, antibacterials, antifungals, antivirals, disinfectants, and polypeptides, after which it is irradiated with ionizing radiation to sterilize and stabilize the combined material. The resulting antimicrobially active material may then be stored at ambient temperature while maintaining its antimicrobial activity and the structural integrity of the base material. The invention is particularly useful for both preventing and treating a variety of infections and for increased safety in reconstructive procedures.