My laboratory testing responsibilities changed significantly during the pandemic as customers searched for a way to control microbial growth and contamination.
At International Product Assurance Laboratories (IPA Labs), we are asked to test many different kinds of surfaces for the ability to repel microbes. We’ve seen a significant rise in the need for antimicrobial testing in my eighteen years as a technician at IPA Labs and we’ve increased our testing options to meet those demands.
Our antimicrobial testing options have expanded from hard surfaces to fabric, such as in upholstery for public transportation, and plastics, such as interior automotive touch surfaces, as well as testing photocatalytic coatings and cleansers for their efficacy to disinfect surfaces.
We were all made critically aware by the SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19) that antimicrobial characteristics are an important consideration in today’s market eager to safeguard public health. Antimicrobial testing identifies and measures a product’s hygienic characteristics, which can help a manufacturer position a product with sought-after advantages.
What Does “Antimicrobial” Mean?
Antimicrobial products are substances or mixtures used to suppress the growth of or destroy harmful microorganisms on inanimate objects and surfaces. Microorganisms include bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, algae, and slime, as defined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Most microbes find it ideal to settle on solid surfaces, where they eventually accumulate. Complex mixtures of microbes and germs called “biofilms” lie within these dense accumulations.
The damage from these microbes could range from discoloration or bad odor to corrosion. Biofilms can also attract more dangerous microbes that can cause serious infection and disease.
Contamination of most surfaces can be controlled with normal cleaners that act as disinfectants but contamination can reoccur once the disinfectant’s properties wear off. The key to a hygienic surface is to have an antimicrobial solution that protects and disinfects throughout the day.
I am performing the ASTM G21 test for determining resistance to fungi.
Advantages of Antimicrobial Testing
The attributes and effectiveness of antimicrobial surfaces, coatings, and cleaners may make a product more appropriate for a specific use and therefore more desirable by purchasers and specifiers for both homes and businesses.
As hygienic needs continue to be in high demand, it is important to seek products that can contribute to maintaining a healthy environment. The testing I perform at IPA Labs evaluates the antiviral, antifungal, and antialgal efficacy of surfaces, resistance to mold growth, and cleaning efficacy of disinfectants and sanitizers.
The lab has a long history of microbiological testing and research, including ground-breaking research on photocatalytic antimicrobial surfaces and the antimicrobial effects of various metal oxides in glazes. Additionally, we test for antiviral activity, antibacterial activity, antifungal activity, cytotoxicity/hypoallergenicity, and additional tests for products with photocatalytic coatings.
The lab’s diverse work portfolio includes testing on various surfaces such as ceramic tile, natural stone, hardwood, textiles, and plastics.
Explore our wide range of life sciences testing options (included in this convenient brochure) or contact our team of scientists, engineers, and lab technicians to learn more about our lab services. Feel free to also reach out to me personally at nmclane@IPALaboratories.com and I’ll be happy to help answer any questions you might have.
