The antimicrobial testing is an important consideration when developing product with antimicrobial additive. Many of the test procedures commonly used were developed for fiber & PVC products. As the incorporation of antimicrobial additives into different polymers is relatively new there is not yet an internationally recognized standard test method. It is necessary to be careful in selecting the methodology and comparing results if different test methods and different types of antimicrobials have been used.

There are two main types of antimicrobial test protocols used:

Agar diffusion method – similar to AATCC 147-1998, ASTM G 21 & 22 or Halo method are recommended for the organic type products such as IRGAGUARD® B 1000 & IRGAGUARD® F 3000 where they have migratory capability.

JIS Z 2801 and AATCC Method are recommended for IRGAGUARD® B silver antimicrobial products due to its non migratory characteristics.

Small differences between the methods, such as the initial number of micro-organisms placed on the sample and sample preparation, can have a significant effect on the results. Care therefore needs to be taken when selecting the methodology and comparing results if different test methods have been used.

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