ASTM D4300:2023

Standard Guideline to Test the Ability of Adhesive Films to Support or Resist the Growth of Fungi

Hassle-free testing experience

Need to get a product tested? No worries! To and fro logistics are on us; we collect your products, test them and, deliver them back to you.

Related tests for you

Determine the efficacy of Biocide
Standard Test Method for Resistance of Emulsion Paints in the Container to Attack by Microorganisms
Measurement of Antiviral Activity on Plastics and other Non-Porous Surfaces
Fungal defacement test
Standard Test Method for Resistance of Emulsion Paints in the Container to Attack by Microorganisms
Antifungal Resistance Test for Coatings

Quick understanding of the test

ASTM D4300:2023 - Standard Guideline to Test the Ability of Adhesive Films to Support or Resist the Growth of Fungi

ASTM D4300 evaluates the ability of adhesive films to resist or support fungal growth.

Application

This test is applicable to adhesive films, coatings, and sealants used in humid or fungal-prone environments.

Adhesive-coated disks (test) and uncoated Whatman No. 1 (control) are inoculated with fungal spore suspensions on  PDA and MSA media plates

Plates are incubated at 25 ± 0.5°C and  examined at specific intervals over 21 days  for fungal growth or zones of inhibition.

Turnaround Time

The ASTM D4300 test typically takes 3–4 weeks.
Results are evaluated by observing zones of inhibition or overgrowth of fungal colonies on adhesive surfaces.

Passing criteria

Adhesive films must demonstrate minimal fungal growth or significant inhibition zones to pass the test.

Do you have a product that needs testing?

Get a quote from our experts today!

Abstract

ASTM D 4300 is a standard that describes the method to evaluate the resistance of adhesive films against fungal growth and is based on the physiological action of microbes of interest under specified conditions. This test determines if the adhesive film is capable of resisting or encouraging fungal growth under controlled laboratory conditions. This test simulates real conditions of the environment to ensure that adhesive products meet safety, durability, and regulatory standards.

ASTM D4300 Test Requirements

The test requirements are: 

Sample Preparation: Adhesive films must be prepared and conditioned as per the test’s specifications. Samples should have uniform thickness and be free from physical defects.

Testing Environment: The test is conducted in a controlled environment with specific humidity and temperature settings to promote fungal growth. A sterile chamber is used to ensure no external contamination.

Nutrient Medium: A suitable nutrient medium, such as malt extract agar, is used to facilitate fungal growth during the test. The medium must support the growth of selected test organisms without altering the properties of the adhesive film.

ASTM D4300 Test Organisms

Common test organisms include:

  1. Aspergillus niger: Known for its ability to colonize and degrade organic materials. Commonly found in environments with high humidity and organic debris.
  2. Penicillium funiculus: Thrives in moderate to high humidity environments and are capable of breaking down adhesives containing organic compounds.
  3. Chaetomium globosum: Capable of degrading a wide range of materials including adhesives.
  4. Trichoderma viride: Frequently used in testing due to its ability to grow on a variety of substrates.

ASTM D4300 Test Method

  • Spores suspension is inoculated on PDA and MSA plates. Then, three adhesive-coated fiber-glass disks are placed on both media plates. In parallel, a control test is run by placing three uncoated Whatman No. 1 filter paper disks on the media surfaces. Using a sterile capillary dropping pipet, three drops of the spore suspension are inoculated on the surface of each disk on the test plates and the control plate.
  • Plates are sealed with parafilm to prevent drying out during incubation. Plates are held at 25 ± 0.5°C.
  • Plates with PDA media are examined at 3, 7, and 14 days for zone of inhibition (ZI) or overgrowth on the adhesive-coated disks.
  • For slow-growing species, the incubation period is extended to 21 days. While plates with MSA medium are examined at 7, 14, and 21 days.

Importance of ASTM D4300 Test

Antifungal adhesive films are thin, flexible sheets or coatings that incorporate antifungal agents to prevent or inhibit the growth of fungi on various surfaces. These films provide a protective barrier against fungal colonization, prevent biodegradation, and extend the lifespan of products.

ASTM D4300 stipulates the test procedure to ensure the effectiveness of antifungal adhesive films and improve optimal performance for their intended applications.

Regulatory and Compliance Standards for ASTM D4300 Test Method

The ASTM D4300 test aligns with global regulatory requirements, ensuring adhesive films meet durability and microbial resistance standards. It is recognized alongside ISO standards for international applicability and is often used to fulfill FDA and EPA guidelines for healthcare and consumer products. Additionally, it supports compliance with building codes, consumer safety regulations, and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), making it an essential tool for ensuring the reliability and safety of adhesive materials across industries.

Conclusion

The ASTM D4300 test method provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating the fungal resistance of adhesive films, ensuring their durability, safety, and compliance with global standards. By simulating real-world conditions, this test helps manufacturers and researchers develop products that withstand fungal challenges while meeting regulatory expectations.

At Microbial Investigations Switzerland (MIS), we specialize in offering advanced testing and validation services, including ASTM D4300. Partner with us to ensure your adhesive products meet the highest standards of microbial resistance and safety. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

Frequently Asked Questions

DR. Martinoz Scholtz

MIS Labs
1. What is the ASTM D 4300 test?

ASTM D 4300 test is designed to assess the ability of adhesive films to resist fungal growth when applied to intended areas of use.

2. What are the Products that can be tested with the ASTM D 4300 test?

Products such as adhesive films, coatings, sealants, and similar materials exposed to humid or fungal-prone environments can be tested with the ASTM D4300 test.

3. What is the Turnaround Time for the ASTM D 4300 test?

ASTM D 4300 test takes 3- 4 weeks to complete.

4. How many microbial strains can your ASTM D 4300 testing lab perform tests on?

At Microbe Investigations, we test for ASTM E2406 using the following microbial strains : 

Aspergillus niger (ATCC 9642), Aureobasidium pullulans (ATCC 15233), Chaetomium globosum  (ATCC  6205), Gliocladium virens  (ATCC  9645) and Penicillium pinophilum (ATCC 9644).

5. Does ASTM D4300 apply to both liquid and solid adhesives?

Yes, ASTM D4300 applies to both liquid and solid adhesives

6. What is the minimum adhesive strength required in ASTM D4300?

ASTM D4300 does not specify a minimum adhesive strength; it focuses on evaluating the ability of adhesive films to support or resist fungal growth.

7. What factors can affect ASTM D4300 test results?

Factors such as environmental conditions, adhesive composition, nutrient medium quality, fungal strains, and sample preparation can significantly impact ASTM D4300 test results.

8. How often should adhesive testing be done using ASTM D4300?

Adhesive testing using ASTM D4300 should be conducted during product development, material qualification, and periodically for quality assurance or regulatory compliance.

Meet the best of the blend of
R&D, Efficacy Testing,
Innovation and Passionate
Experts at MIS.

Send us your sample and experience High quality Swiss standards, Industry leading turnaround times, and affordable prices.



    Explore More