ASTM E2149 Antimicrobial Activity Testing (Dynamic Contact Method)

The test is applicable to measuring the antimicrobial activity of non-leaching (immobilized and not water-soluble), irregularly shaped, or hydrophobic surfaces. Products tested include fabric, paper, powder, granular material, and other solids. 

The test takes 2-3 weeks to complete.

The microorganisms typically include common bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative). Other microorganisms like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and fungi like Candida albicans may also be used depending on the specific requirements of the test.

The shake flask method is used in a laboratory to assess the antibacterial efficacy of treated materials. In this method, treated samples are cultured in a nutrient broth containing a particular microorganism. The flask is agitated to facilitate better contact of the microorganisms with the treated material. After the incubation period, the decrease in microbial count is measured to determine the antimicrobial effectiveness.

Before conducting the test, ensure that the product samples are cut to appropriate sizes according to the protocol. The samples should be in a germ-free state and handled aseptically to reduce interference by unwanted organisms. Follow the specific sample preparation procedures given by the testing laboratory.

This test determines the ability of coated or treated textile samples to control microbial growth. It involves exposing the tested material to a microbial growth medium containing viable microbial cells. Each sample-containing flask is shaken to facilitate contact between microorganisms and the treated textile. Subsequently, microbial count is determined, followed by the evaluation of microbial reduction to assess the antimicrobial effectiveness of the textile.

The acceptance criteria vary based on the specific test requirements and regulatory demands of the sector. Ideally, at least a 1 log reduction compared to the control sample should be obtained. Higher log reduction signifies higher antimicrobial effectiveness.

Yes. ASTM E2149 is considered essential in industries where non-leaching, surface-bound antimicrobial technologies are used and static tests are not representative of real performance.

ASTM E2149 ensures compliance with international antimicrobial standards  by providing standardized, reproducible log-reduction data that aligns with internationally accepted antimicrobial testing principles.

ASTM E2149 should be used for  evaluating non-leaching, surface bound antimicrobial treatments that require dynamic agitation for effective contact between microbes and the treated surface.

Yes, ASTM E2149 is specifically designed for immobilized, non-leaching antimicrobial agents that can’t diffuse into the surrounding environment. 

Yes, ASTM E2149 provides quantitative log reduction data that can be used to support antimicrobial performance and efficacy claims

Dynamic contact tests use continuous agitation to keep microorganisms in motion and in frequent contact with the treated surface. Static tests (such as AATCC 100)  are used for contact-active,  diffusible antimicrobial treatments.

Yes, ASTM E2149 is commonly used to evaluate antimicrobial coatings and surface treatments applied to plastics, metals, textiles, and other substrates.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Optio, neque qui velit. Magni dolorum quidem ipsam eligendi, totam, facilis laudantium cum accusamus ullam voluptatibus commodi numquam, error, est. Ea, consequatur.

ASTM E2149 uses dynamic contact conditions and is used  for hydrophobic surfaces with non-leaching  antimicrobial agents. AATCC 100 is a static test method typically used for hydrophilic textiles with leaching or diffusible antimicrobial treatments.