Affordable
Global Footprint
Speed
LIMS system
Plastic Testing Laboratory
Antimicrobial Plastic Testing
For several decades now, plastics have been an integral part of our daily lives due to their affordability and durability. However, research shows that when plastic surfaces or non-porous materials are not properly sanitized or disinfected, they can support the growth of microorganisms which eventually leads to microbial contamination and the spread of infections. To address this issue, antimicrobial plastics were developed. These plastics are infused with antimicrobial agents which are capable of inhibiting or preventing the growth of microorganisms thus making them particularly useful in healthcare settings and public areas.
However, these antimicrobial plastics should undergo rigorous testing to be deemed effective. This test helps verify the efficacy of the products in fighting microorganisms ensuring they provide the intended protection to the customers.
Antimicrobial Test Methods for Plastics
Several international organizations across the globe contribute to the publication of standard test methods which can be used to test the effectiveness of antimicrobial plastics. Some of these organizations include:
- International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
- American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC)
- American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
- Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS)
Test organisms
At MIS we perform the test using the following microorganisms:
Bacteria
Escherichia coli (ATCC 8739), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538P), Enterococcus hirae (ATCC 10541), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 15442), MRSA (ATCC 33591), Salmonella entercia (ATCC 10708), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 4352).
Virus
SARS CoV-2, Human coronavirus (229E) (ATCC VR-740), Betacoronavirus (OC-43) (ATCC VR-1558), Influenza A (H1N1) (ATCC VR-1469), Influenza A (H3N2) (ATCC VR-1679), Feline calcivirus, Vaccinia virus, Poliovirus, Norovirus, Adenovirus.
Fungi
Candida albicans (MTCC 3017), Aspergillus niger (ATCC 16888), Aspergillus brasiliensis,Trichoderma virens, Chaetomium globosum, Aureobasidium pullulans, Penicillium funiculosum.
At Microbe Investigations, we perform following efficacy test for antimicrobial treated plastics
- JIS Z 2801 – Measurement of antibacterial activity on plastic surfaces (plastics)
- ISO 22196: 2007 – Measurement of antibacterial activity on plastic surfaces
- ISO 21702: 2019 – Standard for measuring antiviral activity on plastics and other non-porous surfaces
- ISO 846: 2019 – Evaluation of the action of microorganisms on plastics
- ASTM E2180: 2018 – Standard for evaluating the efficacy of incorporated antimicrobial agents in polymeric or hydrophobic materials
- ASTM G21: 1996 – Standard for determining the antifungal resistance of synthetic polymer materials
for determination of algal resistance of plastic films
Plastic products tested at MIS
We provide our testing services to a variety of antimicrobial treated plastic items such as,
- Storage containers
- Coating materials
- Ceramic
- Natural and artificial leather
- Rubber
- Medical devices
- Vinyl siding
- Surgical gloves
- Roofing membranes
- Antimicrobial phone covers
Advantages of Antimicrobial Testing on Plastic Products
Reduce the burden of microbial infections
Reusable plastic products can act as reservoirs for harmful bacteria if not sterilized or cleaned properly, leading to microbial infection and potential health hazards, particularly in dental and hospital settings. Antimicrobial plastic materials help avoid such infections.
Increases product durability
Antimicrobial additives in plastic materials prevent the growth of microbes, extending the functional life of plastics.
Protects against staining & bad odors
Antimicrobial plastic materials do not develop yellowing or unpleasant smells with repeated use due to antimicrobial additives, preserving the aesthetic appearance of products.
Prevents biofilm formation
Antimicrobial plastics prevent the formation of biofilms by inhibiting microorganism growth and adhering to plastic surfaces.
Why trust MIS with your plastic product testing?
At Microbe Investigations Switzerland (MIS), we collaborate with various plastic industries to test antimicrobial products. Our extensive experience allows us to customize testing protocols for precise results. Our mission is to provide rapid, accurate, and cost-effective testing to meet your business needs.
For more information about our antibacterial and antiviral tests for plastic materials, contact us here!
FAQs
Antimicrobial testing for plastics is a series of tests performed to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of treated plastics, ensuring they are effective in reducing or eliminating microbial contamination.
Antimicrobial-treated plastic products reduce microbial infections, increase product durability, and prevent bad odors and biofilm formation.
Antimicrobial testing provides evidence of effectiveness by measuring the reduction of microbial populations using standard test methods, confirming the functionality of antimicrobial agents in plastic materials.
Relevant test methods for assessing the antimicrobial efficacy of plastics include JIS Z 2801, ISO 22196, ISO 21702, ISO 846, ASTM E2180, ASTM G21, and ASTM G29.
At MIS, a variety of plastic products can be tested, including coating materials, ceramic, natural and artificial leather, rubber, vinyl siding, roofing membranes, surgical gloves, medical devices, storage containers, and antimicrobial phone covers.
Testing can be conducted against a range of microorganisms, including various bacterial and fungal strains known to cause infections and degrade materials.
In healthcare settings, antimicrobial plastics reduce microbial load on surfaces, equipment, and medical devices, decreasing healthcare-associated infections and promoting patient safety.
In high-traffic public areas, antimicrobial plastics maintain hygiene by reducing microbial load on frequently touched surfaces, preventing infections.
Antimicrobial additives inhibit the growth of microbes that could break down plastics, improving the shelf life and maintaining the integrity of plastic products.
Experts at MIS can tailor test protocols by selecting appropriate test conditions, microbial strains, and evaluation criteria to meet the specific needs and applications of your antimicrobial plastic products, ensuring accurate and relevant results.
Get your product tested now
✓ Completed test order form (TOS)
✓ Customization and Assistance to determine the right test for your project
✓ FAST TRACK Program with less Turnaround Time
