Paint & Coating Testing Lab

With thorough testing, we make sure your products meet the highest industry standards.

What is paint testing?

Paint testing refers to the evaluation of paint products to verify their performance, quality and durability. This includes evaluation of the adhesion, abrasion and weathering resistance, color retention, corrosion protection and antimicrobial performance of the paint. These evaluations are used to gauge the effectiveness of the paint for various applications.

Characterization of coating testing

Characterization of coating testing involves assessing the physical, chemical and mechanical properties of coatings that allow manufacturers to draw conclusions on their suitability for specific uses. These tests include assessing parameters such as thickness, adhesion, hardness and surface texture, among others. It is also possible to determine corrosion resistance, weatherability and chemical stability under various conditions by testing coatings rigorously. These tests ensure coatings perform effectively, providing protection and durability while meeting industry standards.

Types of paint testing

Paint testing can be categorized into various types depending on their evaluation parameters. For example, adhesion testing, abrasion resistance testing, weathering testing and corrosion testing are performed to evaluate durability and performance. Paint tests also cover color and gloss testing, chemical resistance and antimicrobial testing to ensure protection against microbes.

Paint testing laboratory

Ordinary paints and coatings are highly susceptible to microbial attacks. This susceptibility to microbial attacks is largely due to the presence of organic matter in paints and their high moisture retention capacity. The growth of microorganisms on paints and coating can pose health risks and property damage, which in turn increase health, maintenance and repair costs.

To overcome this challenge, antimicrobial paints and coatings have been developed to avoid microbial growth and control surface contamination. These paints and coatings treated with antimicrobial agents protect the product against discoloration and material degradation, hence enhancing the shelf life of the product. However, they must be tested before marketing for validation of their efficiency against microorganisms. Paint testing laboratories offer a wide range of microbial testing services to assure that these coatings meet the required industry standards. 

Test methods for paints

Various international standards provide test methods for evaluating the microbial resistance of paints and coatings. These include
Test for evaluating the antimicrobial resistance of emulsion paints
Test for determining the resistance of adhesive preparations in the container to attack by bacteria, yeast and fungi
Standard to measure the antiviral activity on plastics and other non-porous surfaces
Test method for evaluating the resistance of paint films and related coatings to fungal defacement
Standard for determining the efficacy of adhesive films to support or resist the fungal growth
Test for determining the resistance of adhesive preparations in the container to attack by bacteria, yeast and fungi
Test for evaluating the susceptibility of interior coatings to mold development
Test method for the determination of mold growth on coated building products designed for interior applications
Test to evaluate the resistance of paint films and related coatings to algal defacement

Organisms tested in our paint & coating testing laboratory

Bacteria

Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538P), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 4352), Escherichia coli (ATCC 8739), Salmonella enterica (ATCC 10708), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 15442), Enterococcus hirae (ATCC 10541), MRSA (ATCC 3391)

Virus

SARS CoV-2, Human adenoviruses (ATCC VR-5), Vaccinia virus (ATCC VR-1549), Betacoronavirus 1 (ATCC VR-1558), Human coronavirus (ATCC VR-740), Influenza A virus (H3N2) (ATCC VR-1679), Influenza A virus (H1N1) (ATCC VR-1469), Feline calicivirus (FCV) F-9 (US Patent strain), Poliovirus Type 1 (Sabin) (LSc-2ab), Murine norovirus (MNV) (S99)

Fungi

Aspergillus niger (ATCC 16888), Penicillium funiculosum (ATCC 11797), Aureobasidium pullulans (ATCC 15233), Candida albicans (MTCC-3017), Penicillium citrinum

Scope of paint and coating products test at MIS

Why trust paint and coating testing services at MIS?

At MIS, we offer a comprehensive range of antimicrobial testing services for paints and coating materials. Our team of experts understands the needs of our clients and conducts thorough tests to assess the performance of their products. By utilizing cutting-edge technologies and scientific methods, we ensure that our clients receive accurate and reliable test results. We strive to provide constructive feedback to our clients, helping them to improve their products and better meet the needs of their customers.

For more information about our paints and coating testing services, contact us here.

Why is antimicrobial testing important for paint products?

Fabric testing is essential for maintaining the quality, safety and performance of fabrics used in various industries. Below are key reasons why fabrictesting is crucial:

Inhibits Microorganism Growth

Ensures coatings effectively prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and mold that can be harmful.

Maintains Hygienic Surfaces

Verifies that paints and coatings can sustain cleanliness and resist microbial contamination.

Prolongs Product Life

Minimizes microbial degradation, extending the lifespan of the coating product.

Ensures Regulatory Compliance

Confirms that the product meets industry standards and regulatory requirements before market release.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a paint and coating testing laboratory ensure the durability and performance of paint and coating products?
The paint and coating testing laboratory ensures the durability and performance of paints and coatings by testing them using standards such as ASTM D5589 to evaluate resistance to algal defacement and ASTM D3273 to assess susceptibility to mold development.
How do you ensure the accuracy and reliability of your paint and coating testing results?
Accuracy and reliability are ensured by following standardized test methods, using calibrated equipment and performing tests under controlled conditions.
In what ways do paint and coating testing services help ensure compliance with industry regulations?
Paint and coating testing services ensure compliance by verifying products meet performance criteria such as antimicrobial properties or resistance to algal/fungal defacement, as outlined in ASTM and ISO standards.
What standards do you follow for testing paint and coating performance?
We perform a range of ASTM standard test methods to assess the performance of paints and coatings.
Can your lab conduct tests on both liquid and powder coatings?
Yes, our lab can test both liquid and powder coatings for antimicrobial properties and resistance to algal and fungal growth using relevant ASTM standards.
What types of tests are conducted to assess the adhesion paints and coatings?

ASTM D4783 is used to determine the resistance of adhesive preparations to bacteria, yeast and fungi.

Ready to test your product?

Microbe Investigations Switzerland