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ASTM D2574: 2016 – Standard Test Method for Resistance of Emulsion Paints in the Container to Attack by Microorganisms
ASTM D2574 is a broadly accepted standard which provides the testing conditions, specifications, and method for evaluating emulsion paints’ resistance to microbial attack in containers. Under optimal conditions, microorganisms can thrive in emulsion paints and cause various types of deterioration like loss of viscosity or foul odor. The test allows paint manufacturers and preservative suppliers to choose an appropriate biocide or preservative that can help retain the paint’s quality throughout its shelf life.
ASTM D2574 test standard
The ASTM D2574 test standard is an IN-CAN biocide preservative test aimed at determining the efficacy of the biocide under certain conditions. The test method challenges emulsion paints by subjecting them to certain microorganisms, including bacterial strains like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacter aerogenes.
ASTM D2574 test conditions
The standard mentions specific test conditions to ensure consistency and reliability of results. Paint samples are incubated at a constant temperature of 30°C ± 2°C for a fixed period. All environmental parameters, including humidity, exposure to light, and inoculation with microbes, are strictly controlled to simulate the conditions at the time of storage as closely as possible. Samples are periodically checked for microbial growth, changes in physical properties, and spoilage during the testing phase.
Importance of ASTM D2574 Test
Bacterial and fungal growth on paint surfaces is not only insighty but also reduces their expected shelf life due to the process of deterioration.
In order to ensure the durability and efficacy of emulsion paints, ASTM D2574 test helps manufacturers with regard to these two things –
- in the selection of the most effective preservatives
- evaluation of the efficacy of preservatives with other competitive preservatives
The accuracy of results for ASTM D2574 standard strictly depends upon laboratory techniques practiced for efficacy testing. It is advisable that manufacturers may contact the suppliers of raw materials and biocides if product sample is unable to meet acceptance test criteria.
Organisms typically used in this method: Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538P), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 4352), Escherichia coli (ATCC 8739), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 15442), Enterococcus hirae (ATCC 10541), MRSA (ATCC 33591), Salmonella entercia (ATCC 10708), Candida Albicans (MTCC 3017), Aspergillus niger (ATCC 16888)
ASTM D2574 test methodology
- Sample preparation: Paint samples are prepared containing the biocides (test samples) or without biocides (control samples) and placed in sterile containers.
- Inoculation: A specified amount of specific bacterial strains is added to the paint samples.
- Incubation: The inoculated samples are incubated at 30 ± 2°C for up to seven days.
- Observation: During the incubation period, the samples are regularly inspected to check for physical and chemical changes such as pH value, loss of viscosity, and presence of foul smell.
- Assessment: After the incubation, the samples are rated based on the extent of microbial contamination, using a rating system to quantify the degree of spoilage.
Efficacy rating scale
Rating | Description |
0 | No bacterial recovery. |
1 | Trace of contamination (1 to 9 colonies) |
2 | Light contamination (10 to 99 colonies). |
3 | Moderate contamination (>100 distinct colonies). |
4 | Heavy contamination (continuous and indistinguishable smears of colony growth) |
Importance of ASTM D2574 antimicrobial paints test
The test provides critical inputs about the efficacy of the antimicrobial agents in emulsion paint. The test helps manufacturers evaluate the efficacy of preservatives in comparison to other preservatives and select the most effective preservative for their paint products. This, in turn, allows manufacturers to ensure the quality and longevity of their products.
Compliance and industry standard for ASTM D2574 test procedure
The ASTM is a benchmark standard that meets the requirements set by various regulatory bodies for the safety and stability of paints. Manufacturers who comply with this standard can be assured that their paints are resistant to microbial contaminations and safe for storage and use. Compliance with this standard also provides a reliable metric for customers to identify high-quality paints with robust microbial resistance.
Strengths of ASTM D2574 test standard
- In-depth assessment: The standard provides a comprehensive evaluation detailing how well a paint formulation can resist microbial contamination.
- Standardization: It’s a globally accepted standard that ensures uniformity of testing methods in various laboratories and manufacturers.
- Objective analysis: The rating scale allows for an objective comparison between various paint samples and formulations.
- Flexibility: It allows the testing of multiple microbial strains and various concentrations of biocides.
Benefits of ASTM D2574
- Ensures product quality: Manufacturers can offer products with guaranteed quality by identifying paints that are resistant to microbial spoilage.
- Helps select effective biocides: The test assists in the selection and optimization of antimicrobial agents in paint formulations.
- Enhances shelf life: Tested paint products are likely to have higher shelf lives thus ensuring customer satisfaction.
- Prevents financial losses: Ensures that effective preservatives are used, thereby minimizing the risks of product recalls and bans due to spoilage.
Conclusion
The importance of this test in the paint industry cannot be understated as it provides a methodological approach to evaluate the resistance of emulsion paints against microbial attack. Undertaking the test will be beneficial in proving the efficacy of paints and supporting regulatory compliance, thus streamlining the product approval process.
At Microbe Investigations Switzerland, we offer comprehensive testing services adhering to ASTM D2574, ensuring that your paint products meet the highest standards of microbial resistance. Partner with us to guarantee the stability and quality of your paints. Contact our experts today to learn more!
FAQs
ASTM D2574 is an antimicrobial efficacy test that determines the resistance of emulsion paints containing biocides from microbial deterioration.
ASTM D2574 test is applicable for emulsion paints.
ASTM D2574 test takes 2-3 weeks to complete.
At Microbe Investigations, we test for ASTM D2574 using the following bacterial and fungal strains: Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 15442), Escherichia coli (ATCC 8739), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538P), Enterococcus hirae (ATCC 10541), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 4352), MRSA (ATCC 33591), Salmonella enterica (ATCC 10708), Aspergillus niger (ATCC-16888), Candida Albicans (MTCC 3017).
Industries involved in the manufacturing and distribution of paints, coatings, and emulsions widely use this standard.
This standard is specifically designed for emulsion paints and does not typically cover adhesives. However, similar testing protocols like ASTM D4783 can be applied to assess the microbial resistance of adhesive products.
No, this test method is intended for water-based (emulsion) paints and not solvent-based products.
The limitations include its scope of applicability as it applies only to emulsion paints.
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