AATCC Test Method 30, Part III

Test Method for Antifungal Activity, Assessment on Textile Materials: Mildew and Rot Resistance of Textile Materials

AATCC Test Method 30, Part III is a qualitative test used to determine the efficacy of fungicide on textile material. The two important considerations when evaluating textile materials in relation to fungal growth are (1) the actual deterioration of the textile product (rot), and (2) growth not necessarily deteriorating the product, but making it unsightly (mildewy), often with an unpleasant and musty odor.
Part III evaluates the antifungal efficacy of treated textile materials. Testing is performed in duplicate.

Why This Testing is Performed

This qualitative test is conducted to assess the antifungal efficacy of the textile material.
Test Organisms: Aspergillus niger ATCC 6275
Test Specimen: Non-sterile

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Steps in Conducting This Test

1. Test Sample Preparation: Duplicate circular swatches of the test sample are cut to specified diameter. Swatches pre wetted with an appropriate non ionic wetting agent.
2. Test Organism Preparation: Aspergillus niger is grown on the plate for 7-10 days. After incubation, spore suspension is prepared with a specified population.  Petri plates containing appropriate media are inoculated with the spore suspension.
3. Test Sample Placement: Pre wet test sample is placed in the center of the plate and inoculated with an appropriate volume of the spore suspension.  Inoculum was distributed evenly on the surface.
4. Incubation: Inoculated plates containing the test sample are then incubated for 7-14 days.
5. Antifungal Activity Assessment: After incubation, the plates are removed from the incubator and examined for growth on the surface of the sample.  Growth is rated as No growth, Microscopic growth (visible under microscope) or the macroscopic growth (visible to the naked eye).

Standards, Guidance, and Regulations

• AATCC Test Method 30, Part III: The primary standard for assessing antifungal resistance in textiles.