Microbial Resistance Testing

Microbial resistance testing allows manufacturers to evaluate their products’ ability to resist mold growth in elevated moisture conditions. Definition Mold spores are ubiquitous and can grow and thrive in high moisture conditions. The resulting mold growth can result in staining, decay, degradation or foul smell on any number of products commonly found in buildings, from drywall and flooring to paints and insulation. In addition, microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs), chemicals associated with microbial metabolism, can negatively impact human health. Conducted according to ASTM standards, microbial resistance testing assesses a products’ ability to resist mold growth, providing manufacturers with the information they need to ensure their products perform well in possible high-moisture conditions. Benefits Microbial resistance testing helps manufacturers understand the impact of high moisture conditions on their products and guides them toward development of products that resist mold growth and support better indoor air quality. By conducting microbial resistance testing, manufacturers of all kinds of building materials, construction products, furniture, textiles, insulation and paints and coatings can better understand the impact of mold growth on their products, providing customers with care instructions or engineering products that are increasingly resistant to mold growth.