1. As far as we know, there is no such thing as "mineral sterilization". This sorts of claims are usually made for copper or copper + silver ion systems (added electrolytically or as copper & silver salts, such as copper sulfate), and they are usually made orally. If you can get such a claim in writing, we'd very, very much like to have a copy. EPA standards for sanitizer claims are set pretty high. Copper or copper + silver does kill algae, but it kills bacteria very, very slowly, and has pretty much no effect on viruses.

2. Salt systems (SWCG - salt water chlorine generators) are just a METHOD of adding chlorine to the pool, with both benefits and problems.

The added salt will accelerate corrosion of iron, steel or aluminum. As a result SWCGs are often not a good match for older existing pools.

Rusting or deterioration on DECKS is unlikely in wet areas. There have been problems in arid regions, where regular rainfall doesn't rinse of the pool water.