Fungal Test - CFFA Methods

Chemical Fabrics & Film Association

Standard Test Methods Chemical Coated Fabrics and Film

CFFA – 120 Mildew Resistance

This test is used to determine the degree of fungal growth on the coated side of chemical coated fabrics. Test pieces are placed on a nutrient salt agar surface, inoculated with a mixture of 5 different fungi and then incubated for a minimum of 28 days. After incubation, fungal growth is evaluated using a 0-4 rating scale with 0 being no growth, and 4 being heavy growth.

CFFA – 121 Pink Stain

The purpose of this test is to evaluate the antimicrobial performance in or on a polymeric film against staining by a pink stain organism (Streptomyces species formerly known as Streptoverticillium reticulum). Test pieces are placed in contact with the agar surface that has been inoculated with the test organism and then incubated for 14 days. After incubation, the degree of staining is evaluated using a 0-4 rating scale with 0 being no stain, and 4 being heavy stain. A zone of inhibition is reported if present.

CFFA – 300 Bacterial Resistance

The purpose of this test is to determine the degree of bacteriostatic activity of chemical coated fabrics and films. Test pieces are placed in contact with the agar surface that has been inoculated with one of four (4) bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 4352, Salmonella choleraesuis ATCC 10708, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 13388. After incubation for 18 to 24 hours, the test pieces are examined for interruption of growth along the streaks of inoculum beneath and for a clear zone of inhibition beyond the edge of the test piece.