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ASTM D7855: 2013
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Quick understanding of the test
ASTM D7855: 2013 - Standard test method for determination of mold growth on coated building products designed for interior applications
Application
- Aspergillus niger (ATCC 16888)
- Penicillium citrinum
The test involves exposing coated interior building products to target test microorganisms in an environmental chamber through indirect inoculation.
Samples are incubated for 4 weeks. After incubation, specimens are inspected for visible mold growth.
- Validates mold resistance and enhances product credibility.
- Ensures regulatory compliance and supports product claims.
Turnaround Time
Passing criteria
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Abstract
ASTM D7855 is a standard qualitative test to assess the mold resistance of coated building materials designed for interior use. The test ensures that building materials used in environments with high humidity or damp conditions can withstand mold growth, which otherwise can compromise structural integrity, aesthetics, and indoor air quality.
Products tested: The test applies to coated interior building products.
Test Organisms Used
At MIS, we use Aspergillus niger and Penicillium citrinum to assess the resistance of interior coatings toward mold growth.
Test Method
- Indirect Inoculation: The coated interior building products are exposed to Aspergillus niger and Penicillium citrinum within an environmental chamber through indirect inoculation. This involves providing fungal inoculum using open Petri dishes containing seven-day-old fungal cultures placed below the test product.
- Incubation: Inoculated test specimens are placed in an environmental chamber equilibrated at 30 ± 2°C with a relative humidity exceeding 90%. The samples are incubated under these conditions for 4 weeks. During the incubation period, a proper supply of fungal suspension is provided within the chamber to ensure mold growth. Humidity is maintained by adding sufficient sterile DI water to the bottom of the covered test chamber.
- Evaluation: After incubation, specimens are examined for fungal growth through macroscopic inspection using indirect lighting.
Importance of ASTM D7855 Test
Rapid growth of fungus/mold on interior surfaces is a common phenomenon that causes both structural and aesthetic damage to properties over time. The major consequences faced are end-user dissatisfaction and significant economic losses.
ASTM D7855 test standard provides a rigorous method for evaluating the resistance of these products to mold growth, a key factor in ensuring both regulatory compliance and the durability of the products in real-world conditions.
Benefits of performing this test
- Enhanced product credibility: Performing the test provides third-party validation of a product’s mold resistance, thus enhancing its credibility and reliability in the market.
- Market differentiation: Certification can help differentiate a manufacturer’s products from their competitors, showcasing their commitment to quality and durability while preventing mold growth.
- Regulatory compliance: Testing helps manufacturers ensure their products comply with industry standards and regulatory requirements, which can be critical for market access and legal compliance.
- Support for product claims: Test results can be used in technical documentation to validate claims about mold resistance, enhancing the product’s appeal to informed consumers.
Conclusion
At MIS, we offer both standardized and customized ASTM D7855 testing tailored to meet our client’s testing needs and requirements. We are committed to delivering quality services encompassing accuracy, precision, and prompt turnaround times. With a dedicated team of professionals and world-class lab facilities, we generate reliable and accurate test data.
Additionally, we perform the antifungal resistance of plastic materials employing ASTM G21.
To get a quote on the ASTM D7855 test, please contact our experts here.
Frequently Asked Questions
DR. Martinoz Scholtz
ASTM D7855 is a standard test method for the determination of mold growth on coated building products designed for interior applications.
ASTM D7855 test applies to interior coatings for buildings such as drywall, wood panels, ceiling tiles, insulation materials, coatings, and other construction materials that may be prone to mold growth.
It takes 5-6 weeks to complete this test.
At Microbe Investigations Switzerland, we perform the test using Aspergillus niger (ATCC 16888). Penicillium citrinum. Additional strains can be added as per the customer’s request.
The test determines mold growth by exposing test samples to controlled environmental conditions conducive to mold growth and assessing the extent of growth according to predefined criteria.
The environmental chamber simulates conditions of high humidity levels (90-95% relative humidity) and elevated temperatures (around 30-35°C or 86-95°F) required for mold growth.
Test samples are prepared by cleaning and conditioning them to remove any contaminants. They are then inoculated with a suspension of fungal spores and placed in the environmental chamber.
The criteria for evaluating mold growth include visual inspection and scoring based on the extent of mold coverage. Mold growth is rated on a scale from 0 to 4, with 0 indicating no growth and 4 indicating extensive growth.
The test supports regulatory compliance and product claims by providing standardized, reliable data on a material’s resistance to mold growth. Manufacturers can use the test results to validate their claims about mold resistance.
Certifying building products using this standard offers improved marketability, enhanced credibility, and product quality assurance.
Regular testing is recommended, especially when any significant changes occur during product development, to ensure continued compliance and effectiveness in mold resistance.
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