Testing Standards for Antimicrobial Efficacy of Plastics: JIS Z 2801 vs. ASTM G22
Antibacterial plastics are materials developed to inhibit the growth of bacteria on their surfaces. These plastics are impregnated with antimicrobial agents that prevent them from becoming a breeding ground for bacteria reducing the risk of spreading infections and maintaining hygiene. Antimicrobial plastics are used in products like food packaging materials, medical devices and everyday items such as phone cases and toys to prevent the growth of microorganisms.
To confirm that antibacterial plastics effectively inhibit microbial growth, they must be tested using standardized methods. JIS Z 2801 and ASTM G22 are two widely used standards that analyze the microbial resistance of these materials. In this article, we will discuss the major differences and similarities between JIS Z 2801 and ASTM G22.
Major differences and similarities between JIS Z 2801 and ASTM G22
Differences
Mandatory test strains
JIS Z 2801 – Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli are the bacterial strains recommended by this test method.
ASTM G22 – Uses a single bacterial strain, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, to validate the antimicrobial resistance of plastics.
Scope of Products
JIS Z 2801 – Broadly used for a variety of nonporous materials and is not limited to plastics.
ASTM G22 – Focused specifically on synthetic polymeric materials and their vulnerability to bacterial degradation.
Methodology
JIS Z 2801 – This method involves inoculating a test sample with bacterial strains for defined contact time as per the requirements. After the contact time, the remaining live bacteria are recovered and enumerated for evaluating antibacterial properties of the test sample.
ASTM G22 – This procedure analyzes the ability of antibacterial plastics to resist bacterial growth. The plastic is sandwiched between nutrient-salt agar inoculated with the required bacterial strain and incubated for 21 days under conditions that perfectly favor bacterial growth. The plastic is observed for any sign of bacterial growth on its surface or for any sign of bacterial degradation.
Origin of Standard
JIS Z 2801 – Initially this test was developed in Japan and it is popular across Asia and recognized globally.
ASTM G22 – Developed by ASTM International, it is widely used in the United States and internationally.
Similarities
Both standards aim to analyze the antibacterial efficacy of materials even though from different perspectives. JIS Z 2801 focuses on antibacterial activity while ASTM G22 evaluates resistance to bacterial-induced degradation. Both the test methods are very important and necessary for analyzing the plastic product’s durability and safety, especially for the products used in places that are highly susceptible to microbial growth.
Choosing between JIS Z 2801 and ASTM G22
Understanding the differences and similarities between JIS Z 2801 and ASTM G22 standards for antimicrobial plastics testing is very important for manufacturers to choose the appropriate standard for their products. Manufacturers get their antimicrobial products tested as per these standards to ensure that their products are effective. The tested products meet all the necessary regulations and give confidence to the consumers that the products are clean and safe to use.
At Microbe Investigation Switzerland (MIS), we specialize in evaluating disinfectants, textiles, coatings, and paints. Our global services adhere to the highest international standards including ISO, EN, AOAC, and more thus ensuring that your products meet strict quality measures.
We possess the expertise and advanced cutting-edge technologies necessary to ensure that your materials meet the highest standards of antimicrobial performance. Our team of experts and scientists is committed to providing accurate and reliable services for our clients from all over the world.
To get a quote on JIS Z 2801 and ASTM G22 or want to know more about our services, contact our experts here.
