Test Description
AATCC Test Method 174 Part III is a standardized test used to evaluate the antifungal activity (Mildew and Rot resistance) of new carpet material against mold, specifically Aspergillus niger. The test specimen is subjected to the growth of common fungus species on a nutrient-rich medium to determine the carpet’s ability to inhibit fungal growth. Both the fiber and the back side of the carpet is tested.
Why This Testing is Performed
This qualitative test is conducted to assess whether the test carpet material is resistant to fungal contamination that leads to mildew and rot, which is essential for preventing infections in moist or high-risk environments. It supports antifungal claims for products used in healthcare settings and other places.
Test Organisms: Aspergillus niger ATCC 6275
Test Specimen: Non-sterile
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Steps in Conducting This Test
- Test Sample Preparation: Circular swatches of the test sample are cut to specified diameter. Swatches pre wetted with an appropriate wetting agent.
- Test Organism Preparation: Aspergillus niger is grown on the plate for 7-10 days. After incubation, spore suspension is prepared with a specified population. Appropriate number of media plates are inoculated with the spore suspension to test both the fiber and the back side of the test sample.
- Test Sample Placement: Pre wet test sample is placed in the center of the plate with pile side up or back side up and inoculated with an appropriate volume of the spore suspension. Both the fiber and the back side of the carpet are tested on separate agar plates.
- Incubation: Inoculated plates containing the test specimen are then incubated for 7 days.
- Antifungal Activity Assessment: After incubation, the plates are removed from the incubator and examined for a growth free zone (zone of inhibition) around the test sample whose pile is down and whose backing is up. Score the growth as No growth, Microscopic growth (visible under microscope) or the macroscopic growth (visible to the naked eye)
Standards, Guidance, and Regulations
- AATCC Test Method 174 Part III: The primary standard for evaluating antifungal activity against yeast in textiles.
| Test Code | Variation |
|---|---|
| MG106-000 | |
| MG106-001 | Additional Sample |
