ASTM D2574 – Antimicrobial Test – Paint

ASTM D2574 is the standard antimicrobial test method for evaluating the resistance of emulsion paints in a can or container to microbial growth.

ASTM D2574 is designed to expose products to mixed fungal and bacterial cultures in a controlled setting over the course of 2 weeks.

ASTM D2574 challenges samples of one or more paints that contain various levels of one or more biocides and have a known amount of bacteria.

This process is done in order to rate the ability of the test paint(s) to control the “contamination.”

Results from the ASTM test method D2574 can help manufacturers select the most effective preservative and evaluate the performance of their emulsion paint additive in comparison to competitive and developmental preservatives.

Additionally, testing for antimicrobial efficacy allows for manufacturers to determine what may or may not be working during product development before manufacturing the finished product.  Antimicrobial testing during product development is key to cost containment and efficient production time.

Additional Product Testing for Paint

Another important part of product development focuses on how a material like paint in its liquid form will affect the environment while in use and after disposal.  Evaluating a paint’s biodegradability or toxicological effects on the environment and living organisms is an important quality that can increase market value and distinguish the product from other paints.  The surfactants, latex, or other binder systems can be tested for biodegradability and toxicity to determine how a paint in its finished form might degrade and affect its surrounding environment.

For more information about ASTM D2574 and Antimicrobial testing, contact our antimicrobial lab at 847-483-9950 or info@situtest.com.