Microban International announced it has expanded its Microban Microbiology Testing Services to non-partners. This initiative provides independent testing and verification capabilities for evaluating antimicrobial performance of products for textiles and polymers.
Experts from Microban’s state-of-the-art Center of Excellence research facilities will lead companies, associations, universities and governmental organizations through the evaluation process from start to finish. At completion of the evaluation, Microban reviews the results with the client, providing guidance on next steps.
“We often receive inquiries and requests for microbiological testing from unsolicited customers who need test support,” said Dr. Ivan Ong, vice president of research and development. “Expanding our service to meet industry demand is a natural next step. Given our 25 years of experience and core competence in understanding the antimicrobial performance of wide ranging products from textiles to polymers, we bring tremendous value to microbiological testing, which is why we chose to open our test labs for independent and confidential contract testing.”
The microbiology labs perform standard industrial tests, including the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for bacteria and fungus, as well as specialized field swabbing and identification of bacteria and fungus in manufacturing and development environments. The bacteria testing lab conducts qualitative and quantitative tests that are recognized by industry and international standards.
The fungal lab performs standard analyses to validate antifungal efficacy, modifies standard protocols for nutrient studies or utilizes fungal chambers to simulate environmental conditions.
“An additional point of difference we offer is our ability to consult on technical interpretation and offer productive feedback as a supplement to a standard test report,” said Dr. Glenner Richards, director of Microban test laboratories. “Often times, unfamiliarity with the effect of test factors presents challenges to individuals and companies inexperienced in deciphering the meaning of microbiological test results. We will provide a value-added testing service that supports our test customers with technical interpretation and advice.”
For more information, visit microban.com.
