Fungus Resistance Testing
Fungal testing, also known as, fungus resistance testing, is used to determine the susceptibility of materials in warm and humid climates, pertaining to fungal growth. As a certified environmental lab, we realize the importance of fungus compliance testing. Meeting the standard fungus test method requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.
Keystone takes a consultative approach throughout the entire test program. Our pricing is competitive and we offer volume discounts. Our proven process helps avoid product launch delays. When products do not meet the requirements, we assist with finding solutions. Keystone Compliance creates an accurate test plan to eliminate expensive over-testing.
Ready to get started? We are. Contact us to see why so many companies work with us to achieve their fungus regulatory standard testing needs.
Why is Fungus Compliance Testing Important?
Fungus and microbial organisms can be detrimental to the operation and appearance of products that are operated in environments that are warm and humid.
Operationally, fungus growth can cause:
- Corrosion
- Mechanical failures
- Premature wear
- Unintended electrical conduction paths
Aesthetically, fungus growth causes products to be less attractive and can lead to devices not being used even if there is no impact on operations. Fungal infections can occur when fungus is transferred from a product to the user.
Materials such as hydrocarbons, leather, paints, paper, plastics, polyurethanes, PVC and wood can serve as fuel and nutrients for live fungi to grow. Even material that is fungal resistant can promote fungus growth when external contaminants such as fluids, organic material and sweat are introduced. Because of this, there is no product or material that is truly fungus-resistant.
Fungus resistance testing is the process of introducing a naturally-occurring spore to a product or material. Some of the more common spores include Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus versicolor, penicillium funiculosum, and Chaetomium globosum.
Once the spore is applied, it is placed in a chamber with a hot and humid environment. The testing or inoculation period can range from a couple of weeks to several months, depending on the requirements and the spore(s) being introduced. The determining factor of fungus growth is food. If the material contains food and nutrients, fungus will grow.
The products and materials that must undergo fungal resistance testing include:
- Certain aviation products
- Products subjected to hot and humid conditions
- Consumer products
- Certain military products
Expert Fungus Regulatory Compliance Testing Lab
Fungus compliance testing is just one of the climatics testing services we offer and our lab is fully equipped with the necessary equipment. With significant fungus testing experience, Keystone Compliance can assist with any fungus resistance requirements that you have. It is best to determine if there is a fungus among us on your product or material in the lab as opposed to in the field.
Contact us today for a free fungus resistance testing quote. Request a quote to learn first hand why so many companies partner with Keystone to achieve their fungus resistance certification needs.
Some of the more common fungus resistance testing standards are:
- ASTM G21
- GR-487
- GR-950
- IEC 60068-2-10
- ISO 846
- MIL-STD 810
- RTCA/DO-160
- SAE J1455