AntiMicrobial Cladding Lab Tests

Research carried out uncovered no published standardized method to measure the growth of microbes on a plastic surface intended for use as cladding or roofing (pvc wall coverings). The method described below was specifically designed for this task. It is based on existing methods developed to test the resistance of polymeric materials to fungi, algae, and bacteria (ASTM G-21, ASTM G22-76, ASTM G29-96, JIS-Z2801). The following tests were performed at independent, recognized microbiology laboratories in Germany and England.

Description of Test

JIS-Z2801 standard was selected as test procedure. Prior to testing, all the tested samples (4 samples of each material tested) were cut to 50x50mm pieces and soaked for 1 minute in 70% ethanol, which was then dried in an oven at 45°C for 4 hours. The samples of the tested materials were inoculated with 0.1ml of microorganism culture and covered with a film/glass cover to prevent evaporation. The samples were then incubated at 37°C and >90% RH for 24hrs. Viable organisms were recovered by steeping the tested sample in a phosphate buffer, and then serially diluting the fluid. Four separate identical samples of 0.1ml of each concentration were then dispersed on Petri dishes containing Nutrient Agar matched to the type of bacteria, then incubated for 24/48 hours at 37°C. Bacterial colonies were counted, the result reported is the average. A control (no antimicrobial additive) was run for each microorganism tested (included are the different strains of bacteria and Fungi tested).

Test Results (CFU Reduction after 24H)

Conclusions

The results show that Anti-Microbial panels demonstrate high antimicrobial activity. Use of SANI-CLAD Antimicrobial products (hygienic pvc cladding), along with adequate cleaning regime, would significantly reduce microbial growth, including dangerous pathogens.